Many hunters interested in creating a European deer mount wonder if burying the skull is a necessary step. The short answer is: it depends. While burying a deer skull is a traditional method for cleaning, it's not always the best or most efficient. This comprehensive guide explores the pros and cons of burying a deer head for a European mount, offering alternative methods and crucial tips for a successful outcome. We'll cover everything from the initial preparation to the final stages of your European skull mount.
Understanding the European Mount Process
A European mount showcases the cleaned skull of a deer, often displaying the antlers. It's a popular alternative to traditional taxidermy, offering a cleaner, more rustic aesthetic. The process involves removing all the soft tissue from the skull, leaving only the clean bone. Proper cleaning is crucial for preventing damage, odor, and infestation.
Why Bury a Deer Head?
The traditional method of burying a deer head involves placing it in the ground, allowing natural decomposition to remove the soft tissue. Proponents claim this method is gentle and avoids harsh chemicals.
- Natural Process: Nature breaks down the soft tissue, leaving behind a clean skull.
- Relatively Low Cost: This method requires minimal upfront investment.
The Drawbacks of Burying a Deer Head
While seemingly straightforward, burying a skull presents several significant drawbacks:
- Time-Consuming: Decomposition can take several months, even years, depending on environmental conditions. This significantly delays the completion of your European deer mount.
- Environmental Factors: Weather, soil type, and animal activity can affect the process. Rodents or other scavengers may damage the skull before complete decomposition.
- Incomplete Cleaning: Burying alone may not effectively remove all the soft tissue, requiring additional manual cleaning afterwards, which can be tedious and difficult.
- Potential for Damage: The skull can become damaged during the burial process or by natural elements while underground.
- Odor and Bacteria: Decomposition can result in unpleasant odors and the presence of disease-causing bacteria.
Alternatives to Burying: Faster and More Efficient Methods
Several alternative methods offer a quicker, cleaner, and more reliable way to clean a deer skull for a European skull mount.
Maceration: A Faster Approach
Maceration involves soaking the skull in water, allowing bacterial decomposition to remove the soft tissue. This method is significantly faster than burying, typically taking several weeks.
- Faster than burying: Reduces the time needed to prepare the skull.
- Easier to monitor: You have more control over the process and can address any issues promptly.
- More effective cleaning: Often leads to a cleaner skull with less residual tissue.
How to Macerate:
- Initial Prep: Remove as much soft tissue as possible initially with a sharp knife.
- Soaking: Submerge the skull in a container with enough water to cover it. Change the water every 2-3 days to prevent bacterial growth and foul odors.
- Monitor: Observe the skull regularly for progress.
- Post-Maceration Cleaning: Once the soft tissue is mostly gone, thoroughly clean the skull with water and a brush.
Beetles: Nature's Cleaning Crew
Using dermestid beetles is a popular method for cleaning skulls. These beetles consume soft tissue leaving a clean skull behind.
- Extremely Thorough: Beetles provide a very clean and efficient cleanup of even the most stubborn tissue.
- Fast and Efficient: The process is much faster than burying or maceration.
Important Considerations When Using Beetles:
- Professional Services: Often, you'll need access to a beetle colony or hire a professional service. They will have proper containment for the beetles to safely clean the skull.
- Cost: This method might have a higher upfront cost.
Boiling Method: A Quick and Effective Method
Boiling can be effective, particularly for smaller skulls. However, it’s crucial to avoid over-boiling, which can damage the skull.
- Fast Results: Boiling offers a relatively quick clean.
- Effective for smaller skulls: Suitable for less robust bone structures.
Caution: Over-boiling can damage the skull's structure.
After Cleaning: The Finishing Touches for Your European Mount
Regardless of your chosen cleaning method, once the skull is clean, these steps will bring your project together:
- Degreasing: Use a degreasing solution to remove any remaining oil and grease.
- Whitening: Several whitening methods exist (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) to enhance the skull's appearance.
- Antler Reattachment: If you want, reattach the antlers securely with epoxy or other suitable adhesives.
- Sealing: Seal the skull with a clear coat to protect it from the elements and prevent discoloration.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Method for Your European Deer Mount
Ultimately, the best method for cleaning a deer skull for a European mount depends on your resources, time constraints, and comfort level. While burying is a traditional approach, the modern alternatives of maceration, dermestid beetles, or boiling offer faster, more efficient results with less potential for damage. Choosing the right method ensures a successful and beautiful European skull mount you can enjoy for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper procedures to achieve the best results.