How Long Does Taxidermy Take to Dry
The length of time it takes for taxidermy to dry depends on various factors.
The actual taxidermy work for a deer head takes about two and a half hours.
However, the overall turnaround time for a shoulder mount from a taxidermist can range from six to eight months or even up to a year, according to a social media poll of deer hunters.
This timeframe can be influenced by the efficiency of the taxidermist, the number of deer accepted each fall, and whether the taxidermist tans the capes themselves or sends them to a tannery.
Additionally, the timing of when a buck is brought to the taxidermist can affect the wait time, with early archery season kills usually having a shorter turnaround.
It is important to have patience, discuss timing upfront with the taxidermist, and be prepared for delays if seeking world-class quality taxidermy work.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that taxidermy, the art of preserving and mounting animal specimens, has been practiced for over 4,000 years? The ancient Egyptians were some of the earliest practitioners of taxidermy, creating lifelike animal mummies to accompany their pharaohs in the afterlife.
2. When it comes to drying a taxidermy specimen, the process can take several months to complete. In general, small birds might require around four weeks to dry, small mammals like squirrels or rabbits may take two to three months, while larger animals such as deer or bears can take up to a year to fully dry.
3. One little-known technique employed in taxidermy is called “pickling.” This process involves immersing the animal skin in a solution of water, salt, and alum to soften and preserve it. After pickling, the skin is then dried and treated further to create a lifelike appearance.
4. Taxidermists often use a variety of materials to fill the bodies of animals. While traditional methods involved using straw or wood wool, modern taxidermists often use materials like polyurethane foam or wire frames to achieve the desired shape and stability.
5. Mounting fish for taxidermy can be particularly challenging due to their delicate skin and fin structures. To achieve a natural appearance, the fish is typically injected with a mix of formaldehyde and water after it has been skinned, allowing the skin to retain its vibrant colors and patterns.
Factors Affecting Taxidermy Turnaround Time
Taxidermy shops are often small operations, run by a single taxidermist or with the help of part-time assistants. The efficiency of the taxidermist and the number of deer accepted during the fall season are key factors in determining how long it takes to complete a mount. It’s crucial for taxidermists to find the right balance in the number of animals they take in. Overextending themselves by accepting too many deer can result in wait times extending beyond a year.
The taxidermy process typically involves sending the animal hides, known as capes, to a tannery. This step alone can take anywhere from three to six months. Once the capes are returned, the taxidermist can begin the actual taxidermy work. Mounting a deer head, for instance, usually takes about two and a half hours. However, it’s worth noting that the overall timing of the taxidermy process can vary based on when the buck is brought to the taxidermist.
For example, Virginia taxidermist Daryl Howdyshell spends approximately four hours mounting each deer head. If a buck is brought in on the first day of bow season, Howdyshell can have it completed and ready for pickup by the end of the month. This emphasizes how crucial it is to consider the timing when bringing a buck to the taxidermist.
- Taxidermy shops are often small one-man operations
- Number of animals taken in affects turnaround time
- Sending capes to tannery takes several months
- Actual taxidermy work takes a few hours
- Timing of bringing the buck affects overall turnaround time
“The efficiency of the taxidermist and the number of deer accepted each fall play a significant role in determining the turnaround time for a mount.”
Tanning Process And Its Impact On Waiting Period
One crucial aspect to consider when discussing the waiting period for taxidermy mounts is the tanning process. As mentioned earlier, most taxidermists send capes to a tannery. This additional step is necessary to properly preserve and prepare the animal hides for the taxidermy work. However, it can add a considerable amount of time to the overall process.
On average, it takes approximately three to four months to get the hides back from the tannery. Once the capes are returned, the taxidermist needs to spend around 30 minutes prepping the form and setting the eyes. The actual work of working the cape and mounting the deer takes about one hour and 15 minutes. After this, there is a two-week drying period before the finishing touches, which take another 30 minutes to complete.
- Tanning process adds significant time to taxidermy waiting period
- Capes usually sent to a tannery
- Hides take around three to four months to be returned
- Prepping form and setting eyes takes approximately 30 minutes
- Mounting the deer and working the cape takes about one hour and 15 minutes
- Two-week drying period follows the mounting process
- Finishing touches require another 30 minutes
Timing And Its Influence On Mount Completion
The timing of when a buck is brought to the taxidermist plays a significant role in determining the overall turnaround time. If a deer is brought in during early archery season, the taxidermist may be able to complete the mount within two to three months. However, if the buck is brought in during the rut or late gun season, there may be a backlog of other mounts, increasing the overall timeline.
According to a social media poll conducted among deer hunters, the average turnaround time for getting a shoulder mount back from a taxidermist is between six to eight months or nine months to a year. It is important to note that there are outliers in both directions. Some individuals reported receiving their mounts back in as little as two to four months if they killed the animal with a bow during September or October. On the other hand, certain hunters had to wait 18 months or more to get their deer back due to taxidermists taking on an excessive workload.
Average Turnaround Time For Shoulder Mounts
The social media poll mentioned earlier provides some insight into the average waiting time for shoulder mounts. Based on the responses, it was found that the average turnaround time is between six to eight months or nine months to a year. However, it is important to remember that these are average figures and individual experiences may vary significantly.
Several factors contribute to the variance in waiting times. The efficiency of the taxidermist, the number of deer accepted, and whether the capes are tanned in-house or sent to a tannery all play a role in determining the overall timeline. Additionally, the specifics of when the buck is brought to the taxidermist can also impact the waiting period.
Importance Of Patience And Communication With Taxidermist
Given the wide range of waiting times reported, it is crucial for hunters to have patience when it comes to receiving their taxidermy mounts. Waiting a few months longer than expected is not uncommon, especially during peak season or if the taxidermist is particularly busy. It is advisable to discuss timing with the taxidermist upfront, ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of the expected waiting period.
While waiting for their mounts, hunters can take solace in the fact that the quality of the taxidermist’s work is worth the wait. Some individuals reported waiting two to three years for their mounts, but they were immensely satisfied with the world-class quality they received in the end.
In conclusion, taxidermy turnaround time can vary significantly depending on several factors. The efficiency of the taxidermist, the number of deer accepted each fall, and whether capes are tanned in-house or sent to a tannery all contribute to the overall waiting period. Additionally, the timing of when the buck is brought to the taxidermist can also impact the turnaround time. It is important for hunters to have patience and open communication with their taxidermist to ensure a satisfactory experience. Despite the potential wait, the quality of the taxidermist’s work is often worth every second spent patiently waiting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the drying process of taxidermy?
During freeze drying, the frozen moisture is then converted into a gas through a process called sublimation, bypassing the liquid state. This sublimation process eliminates the need for traditional drying methods, such as air drying or using desiccants. By removing the moisture without causing damage to the animal’s tissues, freeze drying helps preserve the shape, texture, and appearance of the taxidermy specimen. The final result is a lifelike and long-lasting piece of art that accurately portrays the characteristics of the animal.
How long does the taxidermy process take?
The taxidermy process can be quite extensive, which accounts for the significant time it takes. First, the preservation process involves meticulously skinning and cleaning the specimen to ensure its longevity. This step alone can take a considerable amount of time depending on the size and complexity of the animal. Additionally, the taxidermist must carefully sculpt and shape a mannequin to recreate the natural posture and anatomy of the creature. This requires great precision and attention to detail to ensure a lifelike result. Taking all these steps into account, it is no surprise that taxidermy can be a time-consuming endeavor, requiring both skill and patience to achieve the desired result.
Is it okay to touch taxidermy?
It is generally not advised to touch taxidermy for a couple of reasons. Firstly, taxidermy specimens are often preserved using toxic chemicals, posing potential health risks to those who come into contact with them. Additionally, physically handling these specimens can lead to damage, as they are delicate and can be easily altered or disrupted. Hence, it is typically recommended to appreciate taxidermy from a distance and refrain from touching it.
How long will a taxidermy mount last?
The lifespan of a taxidermy mount depends on various factors. On average, if not properly maintained, taxidermy can last for around 20 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, it can retain its pristine condition for 50 years or more. Factors such as extreme temperatures, humidity, exposure to light, bugs, and human touch can significantly reduce the lifespan of taxidermy. Therefore, it is essential to ensure appropriate conditions and regular maintenance to extend the life of these unique and intriguing pieces.