Step-by-Step Guide to Mammal Taxidermy

1. Preparation

   • Gather tools: scalpels, fleshing knives, needles, thread, preserving agents (borax, tanning solutions), glass eyes, modeling clay, and a pre-made or custom mannequin.

   • Prepare a clean workspace with adequate lighting and ventilation. Ensure proper safety gear, including gloves and goggles.

2. Skinning

   • Begin by making incisions along natural body seams (often the ventral side for small mammals or dorsal for larger ones).

   • Carefully separate the skin from the body, using small, controlled cuts to avoid tearing or damaging the fur.

   • Pay extra attention to delicate areas like the face, ears, feet, and tail to preserve fine details.

3. Fleshing

   • Remove all remaining flesh, fat, and membrane from the skin, using a fleshing knife or wire brush.

   • For small mammals, delicate hand tools may be necessary; for larger animals, specialized fleshing machines can expedite the process.

4. Preservation

   • Wash the skin to remove blood, dirt, and grease, then towel-dry thoroughly.

   • Apply borax or salt liberally to the skin to begin the drying process, or opt for a chemical tanning solution to preserve pliability.

   • If tanning, follow the product instructions carefully to ensure the skin is properly cured and supple.

5. Mannequin Preparation

   • Choose or carve a mannequin (foam or wire-frame) that matches the animal's anatomy and natural posture.

   • Modify or sculpt the form with clay or filler material to ensure it aligns perfectly with the original body measurements.

6. Mounting

   • Stretch the preserved skin over the prepared mannequin. Start with the head and work towards the limbs and body, ensuring a snug fit without overstretching.

   • Sew any incisions made during skinning with fine, invisible stitches.

   • Secure the edges around the limbs, tail, and neck using pins, tacks, or glue as necessary.

7. Detailing

   • Insert glass eyes into the sockets and sculpt surrounding eyelids with clay for realism.

   • Shape ears, nose, and lips to restore their natural form, using glue or additional clay for support.

   • Adjust and groom the fur to match the animal’s natural patterns and appearance.

8. Drying

   • Place the mounted mammal in a controlled environment to dry. The room should be cool, dry, and ventilated to prevent mold.

   • Monitor the mount regularly, making adjustments to fur, posture, or seams during the drying process (which can take several weeks).

9. Finishing Touches

   • Once dry, add final details such as painting facial features, blending seams with airbrushing, or applying gloss to the eyes and nose for realism.

   • Groom the fur thoroughly and trim any uneven or stray hairs.

10. Display

• Mount the finished piece on a base or within a display case, considering the animal’s natural habitat or pose for aesthetic presentation.

• Secure the mount firmly to prevent damage during handling or transportation.

This process requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of anatomy to create a lifelike and respectful representation of the animal.