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Getting all beetles off of skulls?

Discussion in 'Skulls and Skeletons' started by Pandion haliaetus, Jan 30, 2016.

  1. Jan 30, 2016 #1
    Pandion haliaetus

    Pandion haliaetus Member

    146
    0
    Indiana
    Hey there, what's the best way to get all of the dermestid beetles off of skulls before you put them in peroxide? So far I've been blowing them off or using a paintbrush.

    Thanks, Pandion.
     
  3. Jan 30, 2016 #2
    ElephasMaximus

    ElephasMaximus Active Member

    527
    35
    Russian Federation
    Leave the skull in empty container with something to lure beetles (piece of jerky meat). Soon, they would come out to new food source.
    The stubborn/dead ones and larva skins are removed with stainless steel pins with hooked (bent) tips.
     

  5. Jan 30, 2016 #3
    Pandion haliaetus

    Pandion haliaetus Member

    146
    0
    Indiana
    Thanks Elephas, I'll try that method out soon.
     
  6. Jan 31, 2016 #4
    ElephasMaximus

    ElephasMaximus Active Member

    527
    35
    Russian Federation
    When it comes to getting beetles out, bird skulls are the trickiest ones. Their inner pneumatic cavities are ideal trap for unlucky beetles which stuck there, and larval skins.
     
  7. Feb 1, 2016 #5
    Kurt27

    Kurt27 Member

    192
    1
    pennsylvania
    I bought a small air compressor and just blow them out. I use to put a 5 gallon bucket in the freezer. In 5 minutes time they will all be laying in the bottom and you dump them back in the colony.