Taxidermy

How to Stop Taxidermy From Shedding: Professional Preservation Techniques

How to Stop Taxidermy From Shedding

To stop taxidermy from shedding, there are several steps you can take.

First, address any insect issues by taking all the mounts outside and spraying them with permethrin.

This will help prevent insects from damaging the mounts and causing shedding.

Additionally, check the hair on all mounts and give it a gentle tug to ensure its stability.

If it easily comes out, you may need to reinforce or repair the mount.

Another tip is to spray the backboards heavily with a protective coating to prevent shedding.

Finally, make sure to allow the mounts to dry completely before bringing them back indoors.

By following these steps, you can help minimize shedding and keep your taxidermy in good condition.


Check this out:


Did You Know?

1. Taxidermy Tip: Did you know that applying a thin layer of baby powder to the fur or feathers of a taxidermy specimen can help prevent shedding? The powder helps to absorb excess oil and moisture, keeping the animal’s preserved coat intact.

2. Unusual Application: Did you know that taxidermy techniques are sometimes used for non-animal purposes? In a fascinating example, the famous “Crawling Hand” prop used in the 1964 film “The Addams Family” was actually a taxidermy mount transformed with a mechanical mechanism to create its creepy crawling effect.

3. Historical Artifact: A unique piece of taxidermy history can be found in London’s Natural History Museum – a curious preserved dog known as “Turnspit Dog.” These canines were once employed in the 16th-19th centuries to work as living engines, turning a wheel in order to rotate meat on a spit, hence their name.

4. Sportsmanship and Art: Taxidermy competitions are held around the world, showcasing the skill, creativity, and attention to detail involved in the craft. A notable event is the World Taxidermy Championships, where talented artists compete to create lifelike representations of various animal species, from mammals to birds, reptiles, and fish.

5. Celebrities and Taxidermy: Surprisingly, some well-known personalities have expressed a fascination for taxidermy. Famous comedian, actor, and writer Steve Martin is an avid collector of taxidermy art. He even penned a book called “An Object of Beauty,” which included a character involved in the world of taxidermy.

Addressing Insect Issues

To effectively manage the threat of bugs in taxidermy, it is crucial to follow proper preventive measures. Spraying all mounts with a non-toxic insecticide, like permethrin, is highly recommended. This process helps eliminate potential insect infestation, safeguarding the mounts from damage or shedding. Pay close attention to hard-to-reach areas such as the ears, nose, and underbelly to ensure complete protection.

Moreover, frequent inspection of the mounts is advised to detect any signs of insect activity. Look for indicators like small holes, discolored hair, or droppings in and around the mounts. Early detection is key to addressing the issue promptly and preventing further damage to the taxidermy pieces.

Checking Mount Hair Stability

One of the most common reasons for shedding in taxidermy is weak or loose hair. Checking the stability of the hair on your mounts is an essential step in preventing shedding. Gently tug on the hair to ensure it is securely attached to the mount. If you notice any loose hair, it is vital to address the issue immediately.

To prevent further hair loss, carefully reattach any loose hair using a specialized adhesive recommended by professional taxidermists. This adhesive should be specifically designed for use on taxidermy mounts and should not cause any damage or discoloration to the hair or fur. Take your time during this process to ensure that the hair is securely reattached, allowing your taxidermy piece to maintain its original appearance.

Spraying Backboards As A Preventative Measure

Backboards play a crucial role in supporting taxidermy mounts, but they can also contribute to shedding if not treated properly. To avoid this problem, it is important to heavily spray the backboards with a protective coating before mounting the specimen. This coating helps strengthen the bond between the hair and the mount’s structure, reducing the risk of shedding.

When choosing a coating, it is essential to select one specifically designed for taxidermy. These products usually contain polymers that create a resilient protective barrier without causing any damage to the mount or altering its appearance. Regularly inspect and maintain the sprayed backboards to ensure long-lasting protection against shedding.

To summarize:

  • Spray backboards with a protective coating to prevent shedding.
  • Choose a coating specifically designed for taxidermy usage.
  • Look for products that contain polymers for a resilient protective barrier.
  • Regularly inspect and maintain the backboards for continued protection against shedding.

Allowing Mounts To Fully Dry

After addressing insect issues, checking hair stability, and treating backboards, it is crucial to allow the mounts to dry completely before bringing them back indoors. This step prevents the growth of mold or mildew, which can degrade the quality of the taxidermy and cause further hair loss.

The drying process should take place in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat. It is recommended to use fans or dehumidifiers to aid in the drying process, especially in humid environments. Patience is key during this stage, as rushing the drying process could lead to irreversible damage.

Ensure proper insect control measures are implemented
Assess the stability of the hair and make necessary adjustments
Treat backboards to prevent any future damage
Allow mounts to dry completely before bringing them indoors
Dry in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or excessive heat
Use fans or dehumidifiers to aid in the drying process, especially in humid environments
Exercise patience to avoid irreversible damage.

Preparing The Mounts For Indoor Display

Before bringing the mounts back indoors for display, it is crucial to prepare the taxidermy pieces adequately to minimize the risk of shedding. Lightly misting the mounts with a specialized preservation spray can provide an extra layer of protection against dust, damage, and shedding.

These preservation sprays are formulated to add moisture to the skin and fur, preventing them from drying out and becoming brittle. Additionally, they can act as a barrier against potential insect infestations, helping to maintain the longevity of your taxidermy pieces.

Maintaining Taxidermy To Prevent Shedding

Regular maintenance is key to preventing shedding and ensuring the longevity of your taxidermy mounts.

Here are some tips to help you maintain your taxidermy pieces effectively:

  1. Inspect the mounts periodically for any signs of damage, loose hair, or insect activity.
  2. Clean the mounts gently and regularly using a soft brush or cloth to remove dust or debris that could cause damage or trigger shedding.
  3. Avoid exposing the mounts to direct sunlight, excessive moisture, or extreme temperatures, as these factors can accelerate deterioration and shedding.
  4. Keep the mounts in a controlled environment with stable humidity and temperature levels to maintain their integrity.

Remember, prevention is better than cure. Take the necessary steps to protect your taxidermy art from damage and degradation.

In conclusion, by following these professional preservation techniques, you can effectively prevent taxidermy from shedding and ensure the long-term preservation of these magnificent works of art.

  • Address insect issues
  • Check hair stability
  • Spray backboards
  • Allow proper drying
  • Prepare for indoor display
  • Regularly maintain your taxidermy to keep it in pristine condition.

With proper care, your taxidermy pieces can be enjoyed for generations to come, adding beauty and fascination to any space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prevent shedding in taxidermy?

To prevent shedding in taxidermy, it is essential to use preventive measures such as the Koola Buck Anti-Microbial Spray. This spray not only prevents slippage and hair shedding but is also suitable for preserving game meat. Slippage and hair shedding refer to the hair loss that occurs on capes, hides, and skins. By spraying the hide with the Anti-Microbial Spray, taxidermists can effectively combat this issue and ensure a pristine result in their taxidermy work, both preserving the appearance of the animal and maintaining the integrity of the hide.

How do you preserve taxidermy fur?

Preserving taxidermy fur requires diligent care to maintain its lifelike appearance for an extended period. It is crucial to store the mount in a dry environment with low humidity levels, preferably in a room with a regulated temperature. Regular dusting is essential to keep the fur looking fresh and sharp. Additionally, avoiding exposure to excessive sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations can help preserve the taxidermy’s overall quality and longevity.

Does heat ruin taxidermy?

Heat can be detrimental to taxidermy as it has the potential to ruin the preservation of animal specimens. When exposed to high temperatures, such as those produced by wood stoves or kitchen ovens, the heat can cause the animal hide to dry out, leading to shrinkage and brittle hair, fur, or feathers. Heat should be avoided in order to ensure the longevity and quality of taxidermy in Cody, WY.

How long does taxidermy last?

Taxidermy, the preservation of animal specimens, can last beyond 20 years if proper storage and maintenance are ensured. Although the best preservation techniques may be employed, the appearance might deteriorate over time. However, with appropriate care, taxidermy can remain intact and provide a lasting representation of the animal for a considerable period, albeit not in its original pristine condition.

Related Articles

Back to top button

Adblock Detected

Looks like you're using an ad blocker. Please disable your Adblocker extension to keep the content flowing.