I just killed a coyote and saved the pelt. I have never tried preserving a hide before. I would like it to remain soft and plyable, and was wondering if it is a lot of work or if I would be better off taking it to a taxidermist. What is a ballpark price that I would be looking at for someone to do this for me? It is just the hide and tail from the neck down, no head. Also, one last question, are there any recommended taxidermists in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area that I should check out? Thanks for the help.
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at the top of the screen and click on it. Then click on the state of Louisiana and you will see several reputable taxidermists listed there. Of course taking it to a taxidermist is going to be pretty expensive for just tanning a skin. If you click on the link above to suppliers there are several suppliers of taxidermy products that sell small mammal tanning kits that will fit your needs and you can do it yourself for just a few bucks. Also hit the orange search button on the left and type in coyote tanning and you should get more info than you can digest in a day that will help you with the process.
Good Luck
HOSS
The easiest by far would be to send it to a profesional tannery. It's really not that much more than doing it yourself once you figure in time and supplies. All you have to do is scrape off the fat and salt it. The right tannery will even do that for a fee.