Gator skull with skin on

[RobertH]

We do a lot of gators every year and this is the first time someone has asked for a skull with the skin on. I've seen them before and was wondering if they are freeze dried or what. I need to get a quote to my client so he can make a decision. So, how are they preserved and does any one offer this service?

Thanks,
Robert

[Lenny]

With the skin on is the only way you can mount them. The skin is part of the skull and can't be removed. The best way would be is send it someone that cleans skulls with beetles. If that is not a option you will need to remove the roof of the mouth and get the red meat out. Use a chisel, small
hand grinder or anything you can find to get the meat out. After getting ALL the red meat out. Soak it in denatured alcohol for 3 or 4 weeks probably less but to be on the safe side. Re build roof of mouth.
The best person to ask about this is Tom Voyer. If there is a better way I would trust him to tell you.

[RobertH]

I understand how to do them for a mount. I've seen a lot on ebay that were preserved with the skin on and am needing to know how to do it that way or find someone who can.

Thanks,
Robert

[Riverdale Taxidermy]

I understand how to do them for a mount. I've seen a lot on ebay that were preserved with the skin on and am needing to know how to do it that way or find someone who can.

Thanks,
Robert

Curious myself. Ive bought them off ebay. Not a bit of smell to them. Missing the tissue under the bottom jaw but the rest of the hide is on the skull. The cheaper ones have marbles in the eyes. Plan on getting some more this year. Make unique busines card holders for shows.

[mjroberts]

most of the gators I do that way I put in formaldehyde and soak for 2 or3 weeks the skin is still on but no bottom jaw skin

[ESP]

I just received my first one.  Not many alligators here in Oh.  My question is with the lower jaw.   Is there a form or what do I do?  How much time do you charge for on a gator head? 

[wetnwild]

ESP, give me a call at 603-783-4861 and we can discuss it.

[RTPBearcat]

WetNWild

I've done a number of gators 6 to 8 feet, just did a 12+ foot skull.  You are right, it's a whole 'nuther ball game when you start working on the big ones.  Looking forward to getting back to the 2 seven footers in the freezer.  Thanks for all your help in the past.

Also, the roto drill bits can be very handy when removing bone in the skulls of gators.  Not quite as fast but much better control than trying to use a reciprocating saw.