|
Something else to consider: Due to having to crate mounts for shipment, the horns of larger game (Gemsbok, Kudu, Waterbuck etc) are not attached to the mounts during shipping. The horn cores are sawed off, leaving just enough to reattach the horns by the owner upon arrival. Most guys and gals have no idea how to properly reattach them so they won't get knocked off accidently. This is not a real problem if they are reattached correctly, so again most people should take them to a local Taxidermist to have it done. It is kinda funny to see a guy open his crate and find no horns on his Kudu. "What the hell...." is usually their reaction until they find them wrapped up and packed in the crate. I give full credit to the African Taxidermists. Those guys know how to pack a crate and can use every inch of space. One strong recommendation to ANYONE who hangs African Antelope on their wall: there are a number of Dermistid insects that are drawn to the keratin protein contained in antelope and sheep horns. They will eat your mount up unless you keep them treated. We used to have Edolan-U (from Germany). This treatment was done prior to mounting and lasted forever. Our EPA banned this product so now we use a liquid chemical from the carpet industry. The brand name I use is Pro-Tex and is available from Taxidermists. It has a very strong odor that lasts about a week, so it is very advisable to take your mounts to a local Taxidermist once a year (at least once every two years) and let them treat and clean your mount. This shouldn't cost much and will protect your mounts from infestation. The problem with those little pests is by the time you notice "powder" or "sawdust" coming from your mount, it may be too late. They bore into the horns like carpenter ants and also eat the hair at the base. You won't see shedding hair unless you clean your mount and find a handful of loose hair falling out. If your local Taxidermist will sell you some Pro-Tex, ask him/her to instruct you on proper cleaning and treatment. Best spray your clean mount outside with Pro-Tex. As I say the smell lasts for several days. Always wear disposable rubber gloves and keep it away from your eyes. This preventative measure will assure your mounts will stay protected for many years to come. Good hunting, grayghost
|