Preparing a European deer head mount involves a crucial initial step: properly burying the skull. This process cleans the skull, removing all soft tissue, leaving behind a clean, pristine bone structure ready for display. Done incorrectly, however, it can lead to a smelly, damaged skull unsuitable for mounting. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve a successful European mount.
Why Bury the Deer Head?
Burying the deer head is a natural and effective method for degreasing and cleaning the skull. The earth acts as a natural decomposer, breaking down the soft tissues and leaving the bone clean. This method is preferred by many over boiling, as it minimizes the risk of damaging the delicate bone structure, especially the antlers. Proper burial also minimizes the risk of unpleasant odors associated with improper decomposition.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather these necessary items:
- A sturdy shovel: You'll need this to dig the burial pit.
- Heavy-duty plastic bags: Several bags are essential to contain the skull and prevent unwanted smells.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from bacteria and potential contaminants.
- Optional: Lime: Adding a small amount of lime can help accelerate the decomposition process and reduce odor. However, it’s not strictly necessary.
- A secluded location: Choose a spot away from houses, water sources, and areas frequented by animals or people.
Step-by-Step Burial Process
1. Preparation: Carefully remove as much soft tissue as possible from the skull before burial. This will significantly reduce the burial time. Use a sharp knife or bone saw to remove excess meat, but be cautious not to damage the bone.
2. Bagging the Skull: Place the skull into a heavy-duty plastic bag. Double or triple bagging is recommended to prevent leakage and odor. Secure the bags tightly.
3. Digging the Pit: Dig a hole deep enough to completely bury the bagged skull. The depth should be at least two feet. The location should have well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging.
4. Burial: Carefully place the bagged skull into the hole. If using lime, add a small amount to the bottom of the pit before placing the skull. Cover the skull completely with soil.
5. Marking the Location: Mark the burial site clearly, using a stake or other marker. This is crucial to remember where you buried the skull.
The Waiting Period
The burial time depends on several factors, including soil conditions, temperature, and the amount of soft tissue remaining on the skull. It typically takes several weeks to several months for complete decomposition. Check periodically for excessive odor. If a strong smell persists, it’s important to unearth the skull and re-bag it before reburial.
Exhumation and Aftercare
Once the decomposition is complete (you'll know this by the lack of smell and the ease with which the skull can be lifted from the ground), carefully excavate the skull. Rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any remaining soil. At this point, you can begin the cleaning process, which is best accomplished with degreasing agents and gentle scrubbing. Numerous online guides detail various cleaning techniques.
Important Considerations
- Legal Restrictions: Check your local laws and regulations regarding the disposal and handling of animal remains.
- Safety: Always wear gloves and practice safe handling techniques to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease.
- Patience: This is a process that takes time. Be patient and don't rush the decomposition process. A rushed job will almost always result in a poorly cleaned skull.
By carefully following these steps, you can successfully bury a deer head for a European mount, resulting in a clean, beautifully preserved trophy. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving optimal results.
