From the thrill of the hunt to the pride of display, a European mount offers a unique and impressive way to showcase a deer trophy. The clean, stark white skull with its magnificent antlers is a stunning piece of taxidermy, perfect for a cabin, office, or any space that celebrates the natural world. But getting that perfect European mount requires more than just taking the head home; it demands a methodical and careful process. This detailed guide will walk you through every step, providing you with the knowledge and techniques needed to successfully clean a deer head for a European mount, transforming your hunting trophy into a timeless piece of art.
Starting Your European Mount Journey
The European mount’s appeal lies in its simplicity and elegance. Unlike traditional taxidermy, it focuses on the natural beauty of the antlers and the skull itself. But the process demands attention, patience, and a thorough understanding of the steps involved. Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a long-lasting, beautiful result, one that will be admired for years to come. This guide is your companion, and with each step, you’ll be one step closer to a stunning finished product.
Getting Ready: Preparing the Deer Head
The foundation of a great European mount is a well-prepared deer head. This involves removing all the unnecessary flesh and tissue, leaving only the bone and antlers. It’s a messy process, but it’s a critical one.
Skinning the Head and Preparing the Antlers:
The first and most crucial step is skinning the deer head. This should be done immediately or as soon as possible after harvesting the deer. The longer the wait, the more difficult the process becomes, and the greater the risk of decomposition. Begin by carefully making an incision along the back of the neck, from the base of the skull towards the antlers. Use a sharp knife, and take your time to avoid cutting into the antlers or damaging the skull. Carefully peel the skin away from the skull, working around the base of the antlers. You’ll encounter some resistance as you reach the base of the antlers. Be especially careful here.
Next, remove as much meat as you can from the neck and head. The more meat you remove now, the easier the subsequent cleaning stages will be. Consider removing the lower jaw if it’s not to your taste; some people prefer to leave it intact. Also, be careful not to damage the antlers. Protecting the antlers during the whole process is vital.
Removing the Eyes, Tongue, and Brain:
Once the skin is removed, you’ll need to tackle the internal parts. Removing the eyes, tongue, and brain is essential for a clean and odorless European mount. This is where the process gets a little more hands-on.
Eyes: Carefully remove the eyes using a sharp knife. Cut around the eye socket and sever the optic nerve. You can then pull the eye out.
Tongue: Use your knife to cut around the tongue and free it from the jaw.
Brain: The brain is a bit trickier. The skull is a protective casing, so the brain will need to be removed to prevent it from rotting. You can use a variety of tools like a coat hanger or a hook made from a strong wire to gently pull out the brain through the hole where the spinal cord enters the skull (for a larger brain) or by enlarging the hole in the back of the skull. Working with a strong hose and running water through the cavity of the skull can help flush out the remaining matter of the brain. Take your time.
Cleaning Starts: The Initial Cleaning Methods
Now that you have your bare skull, the real cleaning begins. There are a few options here, and the best method for cleaning a deer head for a European mount depends on your preferences, available equipment, and the time you have.
Boiling: The Time-Tested Technique:
Boiling has been a common cleaning method for decades. It’s relatively straightforward, though it requires careful execution. The primary advantage of boiling is that it quickly removes flesh and cartilage.
Equipment: You’ll need a large pot or drum that is big enough to fully submerge the deer head. A propane burner is recommended because it provides intense heat.
The Process: Fill the pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Do NOT boil aggressively, as this can cause damage to the antlers. Gently submerge the deer head in the water, making sure the antlers remain above the water line. This protects them from discoloration. Let it simmer. You’ll notice the meat begin to separate and become loose.
Working the Skull: Remove the head periodically to scrape off any loosened tissue. A knife, wire brush, and even a pressure washer can be helpful at this stage. The length of time depends on how much flesh remains and how efficiently your equipment works.
Important Considerations: Constant monitoring is essential. Over-boiling can cause the skull to become brittle, while aggressive boiling can damage the antlers. Ensure to change the water if needed.
Maceration: Soaking in Water:
Maceration, or soaking the skull in water, offers a different approach. It’s slower than boiling but often results in a cleaner and more natural look. It’s also often considered a less risky method to damaging the skull.
Setting Up the Maceration Tank: The container should be large enough to submerge the deer head. The exact container is up to you and depends on the size of the head. Some people use 55-gallon drums, while others use smaller plastic tubs. Place the head in the container and cover it with water. You can weigh the head down to keep it submerged.
The Waiting Game: Maceration is a waiting game. The decomposition process will break down the flesh. Expect the process to take several weeks, or potentially months.
Temperature and Smell: Warm temperatures accelerate the process. The maceration process will produce a potent odor. Place the container away from your living quarters.
Maintaining the Process: Changing the water periodically is important. You’ll want to change it when it becomes excessively murky or malodorous.
After the Initial Cleaning: Post-Cleaning Steps
Whether you choose boiling or maceration, there are several post-cleaning steps that are critical to achieving a truly professional-looking European mount.
Removing Tissue and Debris:
After the initial cleaning stage, there will still be tissue, grease, and debris clinging to the skull. Thoroughly removing this is essential.
Tools: A variety of tools can be helpful, including knives, wire brushes, and pressure washers.
Techniques: Use your knife to scrape away any remaining meat and tissue. A wire brush will help scrub away stubborn bits. A pressure washer can be incredibly effective, especially for getting into hard-to-reach areas.
Inside the Skull: Don’t forget to clean the inside of the skull. Removing any brain matter or tissue from inside the skull is important for preventing future odor and potential insect infestations.
Degreasing the Skull:
Deer skulls have a considerable amount of natural oils, or grease, in them. If not removed, this grease will eventually seep to the surface, causing unsightly yellowing and staining, and leaving it vulnerable to cracking. Degreasing is a crucial step for long-term preservation.
Method: The most common method involves soaking the skull in a degreasing solution. Many people utilize a solution of hot water and dish soap, while others opt for ammonia-based cleaners.
Monitoring the Process: The degreasing process can take days or weeks. You’ll know it’s working when the water becomes oily or cloudy. Change the solution regularly, and continue degreasing until the water remains clear.
Important Note: Handle chemicals with care, and always wear appropriate safety gear.
Whitening the Skull:
Whitening the skull isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about removing any remaining discoloration and achieving a bright, clean finish.
Whitening Agents: Hydrogen peroxide, available in various concentrations, is the most common whitening agent. You can also find specialized whitening compounds designed for taxidermy.
Application: Apply the whitening agent to the skull. You can submerge it in a solution or apply it with a brush.
Time: The skull needs to be immersed in the solution for a few hours or even a day or two, depending on the method and the concentration of the agent.
Important Safety: Make sure to follow all safety instructions provided with the product. Wear gloves, and protect your eyes.
Final Steps: Drying and Mounting
Once the skull is clean, degreased, and whitened, it’s time for the final steps.
Drying the Skull:
Proper drying is important. The skull should be allowed to dry completely. This will take several days or even weeks, depending on the environment. A well-ventilated area is ideal.
Mounting the Skull:
Now it’s time to mount the skull and display your trophy.
Mounting Plates: There are many styles of mounting plates available, from simple wooden plaques to intricately carved designs.
Attaching the Skull: You’ll need to secure the skull to the mounting plate. This often involves drilling holes and using screws or other fasteners.
Placement: Carefully position the skull on the mounting plate to achieve the desired look.
Finishing Touches and Care
Sealing the Skull:
The final step for many is sealing the skull. Apply a sealant to protect it from the elements and prevent yellowing.
Maintaining the European Mount:
To maintain the European mount and its beauty, handle it with care. Clean the antlers with a soft brush.
This is a long term display.
Conclusion: The Rewards of Patience
Cleaning a deer head for a European mount is a rewarding process. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. By following these steps, you can transform a discarded deer head into a beautiful and long-lasting tribute to your hunting success. The final result will be something to cherish.
From the initial skinning to the final mounting, each step requires care, ensuring that the final product is a stunning tribute to the hunt and a beautiful addition to your space. Now you know how to clean a deer head for a European mount!
