I have very recently begun to practice taxidermy. So far, quails are all I practice on,
and I am still trying to figure everything out. I live in a location where there are virtually no other taxidermists and I am teaching myself through books. Does anybody out there have any general advice for a beginner on bird taxidermy (books that are helpful, other resources, general advice)? thanks
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KFM -- I learned most of what I know through watching video tapes. I don't retain as much when I read as I do when I am watching someone else do a task. The great thing about watching the videos is you can rewind a section you don't understand, until you get it right. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can help in any other way. -- Greg
The one good thing about starting with small birds is that it will be much easier when you get to larger birds. Your suppose to start with a bird the size of a pigeon ( this is what the books tell you )because it gives you more room to work plus these are easy to get . When I started back in the 60's , I started with sparrows and starlings and I found out that when I did pheasants and other larger birds , it was a piece of cake because you have more room with them . If you already have worked on some birds , just keep trying . Rick
A lot of books teach to severe tail butt after the leg joints are severed but I did find another book that taught differantly
make a longer Incision severe leg joints the wing joints the base of neck then skin down and severe tail butt you'll find this far easier
and you'll have a bird mount when all Is said and done.Check the library out