|
Here's where some simple but critically important steps can ensure a quality mount. More specimens are destroyed during freezer storage than at any other stage. These easy instructions will ensure long life in freezer storage. Here we go:
- We are now dealing with storage issues. For example, at this stage, we want to eliminate as much contact as possible with air. We want to protect from freezer burn.
- Birds must be wrapped in plastic. The best way is to double or triple bag them.
- You do this by first folding the head back under one wing and placing the specimen in a plastic sack.
- Lay the sack down and fold the feet tightly against the body. Force all the air out of the feathers and the bag by carefully rolling the sack up tightly and securing with masking tape. Take care with this very important step. Air is the enemy here.
- The package is then placed into the bottom corner of a large plastic garbage sack and rolled up again, once more forcing all the air out of the sack. Secure with masking tape.
- This process may be repeated one more time. The final package should be labeled and dated so you know what you have.
- Immediately place the package in a freezer. Do not store in a frost-free type freezer because such freezers create too dry an environment. If properly wrapped, a bird will last up to ten years or more in storage!
- Under no circumstances use newspaper, paper bags, aluminum or tin foil, freezer wrap, waxed paper or cloth. None of these materials protects from freezer burn.
© Stefan Savides
Now find out how to ship birds for taxidermy. To visit throughout our site... click on any of the selections at the top of this page.
|
