Reproduction Ruffed Grouse heads?

I have a ruffed grouse in my freezer that I'm deciding what to with.

I am considering molding and casting the head for repro heads as there are for ducks etc. Would there be an interest for a similar thing in grouse? Perhaps they already exist... not sure...

Anyway - people who actually do grouse mounts; please leave your opinions as to whether you would use repro grouse heads or not - and explain why or why not. Also include specific features you would like to see in them if you could.

Thank You =)

Return to Bird Taxidermy Category Menu

Hmmm

Raven,

I don't personally mount to many grouse, but I do think most of the supply catalogs already have them.. not for sure though... But it would never hurt to have another option on the market..

Best of Luck,
Jon

We Do

We have heads for Ruffed Grouse and most other grouse and upland birds. I will be doing a bird mount seminar at the NTA useing a cast head.. I think you will find many advantages to using them. If I can answer any of your questions Ask!
Tony

I wouldn't

What exactly are the benefits? Grouse heads are covered with feathers aren't they? Artifical duck heads were brought about because of the shrinkage problems about the bills. The beak on a grouse shrinks very little and is probably not noticable. The eyelids - easily rebuilt..

Ringneck heads, sure the waddles shrink and are difficult to maintain. There are some nice artificals out there...Turkey heads, absolutely!

Here are just some benifits

1. Shape of the head is easier to achieve
2. Paint bill ahead of time.
3. Eye position more accurate
4. Easier to get a great head neck union.
5. Head attachment stronger and easier to achieve.
6. Never a neck incision.
7. Faster than natural head.
8. Save time cleaning skull
I'm sure there are others that I can't think of right now.

There was a time when most taxidermists would not use cast heads on waterfowl. I once told people there was no need for cast heads on upland birds, because they don't shrink. I have since discovered that it is better to mount any bird with a cast head.
I am a strong proponent of "doing what works best for you", but not being willing to try new or different things can sometimes leave you behind the pack. Cast heads have made bird mounting much easier for many taxidermists and using them in birds other than waterfowl works great too.
You Asked
Tony

Cool =)

Thanks Tony =)

btw - nice heads - saw some of your casts =)