I just recieved a nice muley that is STILL in Velvet. He shot it yesterday and left it on the back of his pickup over night. He wants a european mount with the velvet preserved. I have never had to deal with Velvet before so I am not sure whether it will still be good. Is it? If so, how do I preserve it until I can get some preservative ordered. Also, What would be the recommendation for preserving the velvet. Thank you for your time.
Return to Beginners Category Menu
Garrett,
Because the Euro mount can't be done with velvet antlers easily, the best way is to cut the antlers off right under the pedicel. Then submerge them in a 50/50 solution of formaldehyde/water for 4 or 5 days, then hang to dry (or send them out to be freeze dried if you prefer). I'd submerge the skull in water until the meat all sloughed off by hosing them done once or twice a week and changing the water each time. Then when the skull is clean and dry, drill holes in the antler and the skull pedicel. Drill them oversized and use 3/8 or 1/2 inch thread stock. Fill both holes with a quick set epoxy paste and place one antler on at a time. When both are on and cured, use white Apoxie putty to smoothe the skull into the pedicel area and paint the skull with Elmers White Glue.
George,
Tahnk you for taking the time to help. I really appreciateany and all advice that I can get.
I TAKE A SYRINGE AND INJECT DENATURE ALCOHOL INTO THE VEINS. YOU CAN SEE WHEN YOU HIT A VEIN. CONTINUE INJECTING THE ALCOHOL UNTIL YOU GET CLEAR ALCOHOL EXITING. BASICALLY YOUR FLUSHING THE BLOOD IN THE HORNS OUT. I USE SEVERAL BOTTLES TO MAKE SURE IT IS FLUSHED OUT WELL THEN SIT THEM UP TO DRY.
GRANT