Part of the appeal of hunting involves being outside with no cell phone service or other distractions to bother you. However, this also means less convenience when you hope to end your trip with quality deer mounts in Cody, WY that will look great in your trophy room. This often means caping deer in the field in order to preserve it for a trophy later. Here are mistakes to avoid when performing your own caping, so your taxidermist’s job will be easier:
- Failing to realize your limits: Improper field care of trophy animals means hide damage and rapid decomposition. Damage to delicate areas, like the nose, eyes and ears, can be difficult for even the most skilled taxidermist to repair. If you’ve never performed caping before, speak with a taxidermist about methods you can use. Consider delegating the task if someone in your camp is more skilled at caping. Basically, admit what you do not know, and request help.
- Ignoring the taxidermist’s particular requirements: Every taxidermist has preferences and requirements for caping hides. Know these before you head out on your trip. If you do not follow these instructions, it could be impossible to create a lifelike trophy. This way, you go into the field with the necessary knowledge and will do more to help, rather than hinder, the taxidermist. There are also some methods of field dressing, like the dorsal method, which should only be performed with the taxidermist’s approval. It is easier for all involved if you know what you need to do ahead of time.
- Dragging your deer: Make arrangements to have at least one member of your hunting party bring a game cart or rickshaw so you can move the deer without needing to drag it. Leaves, dirt and rocks can damage the hide and give your deer more of a “natural look” than you may desire. At the very least, agree that everyone in your party will work together to pack out an animal when the hunt produces success. If you have no other choice but to drag the deer, tie a rope around the base of the antlers and move slowly and smoothly.
- Performing the wrong cuts: You may have to give yourself a serious crash course before leaving. Depending on the type of mount you desire, you will need to use different field dressing techniques. Cutting into the brisket or neck can completely ruin trophy potential beyond the simple antler mount. Have a good idea of the type of mount you desire, and brush up on caping techniques that work for that look.
- Waiting too long after the kill: If you seek to remove the skin through the dorsal method or the flat incision, consider your immediate resources carefully. Once removed, the skin needs to be frozen quickly or it will decay. Never be hasty about methods, and plan ahead, or you risk damaging your trophy.
Nature’s Design Taxidermy offers several types of deer mounts in Cody, WY that can appeal to your particular sense of décor. Contact us today to arrange for a new trophy mount.