Case Skin Specimen
2 hoursRemove skin in tube from leg cuts, preserving paws, tail, and facial detail.
Intermediate2-3 weeks
Small Mammal Mount Guide
Learn small mammal mount from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
taxidermy studentsnatural history collectors
Workflow
Tan and Preserve Hide
3 hoursFlesh hide, apply pickling and tanning solution or dry preserve for small mammals.
Build Internal Form
2 hoursWrap body mold with wire armature for legs and tail; insert eyes and nose detail.
Mount and Groom
3 hoursPull hide over form, sew openings, wire digits, and groom fur direction naturally.
Tools Used
Checklist
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Planning
Preparation
Safety
Execution
Quality
Documentation
Reference Materials
Case SkinStandard
Single incision up leg to body — no dorsal slit preserves back fur pattern.
Tanning RatioFormula
Follow product ratio: typically 1 lb salt per gallon pickle for small hides.
Small MammalsTable
Common beginner mounts.
| Species | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Squirrel | Small | Good starter |
| Fox | Medium | Tail bushing |
| Rabbit | Small | Fragile ears |
Rabies Vector
Raccoons, foxes, bats — know local rabies exposure protocols for salvaged animals.
Chemical Burns
Tanning acids corrosive — nitrile gloves and eye protection mandatory.
Botulism
Do not skin bloated or long-dead specimens.
Safety Notes
- Work frozen-thawed specimens on sanitized surfaces.
- Label chemicals clearly — many tanning solutions look alike.