Bobcat Measurments

The measurements in most catalogs are generally reliable for most size ranges like small -24, medium - 30, and large - 32+. But my rule #1 is that all forms should be considered as blanks, that is they are sized and designed for average specimens of the species. One can't expect any form which was not modeled to fit your skins to be a perfect fit for your skins. Therefore most commercial forms (not all) may require a little tweeking to fit nicely.

I would say that the most important measurements are: Head length, eye to nose, total length, and belly circumference.

Since I model forms, here's an example of the measurements I take so that I can duplicate a particular specimen with as much accuracy as will fit most skins of a particular size class. If you expect every form you buy to fit like a glove, you're expecting too much.

 

I would go with the eye to nose and circumstance it's not hard to shorten or make it longer if needed

 

I agree with eye to nose, but my second choice would be total length. There is a consistency you can rely on when measuring most every critter. Say, a bobcat with an eye to nose length of 1/12" will have a close approximate body length and circumferences of all other specimens with the same N to E measurement. Circumference variants are mostly if the animal had just eaten a large meal, or was heavily fatted.or undernourished.
Keep in mind also, a cat skin 30 inches long can be used on forms 29" and 31" long with good results because a one inch in 29 or 31 inches is negligible. An experienced taxidermist knows he can stretch or scrunch a few percentages and still get a good fit.

Lastly, my experience has been that every good supply company will provide you with further details like measurements over the phone if you ask them.

 

Male to Female heads some times on cats can very greatly same
with 29"female vers 29"male bodes can differ also.

 

You got it right wa. That's a very important distinction. It becomes more and more differentiated as males mature.

 

Are you taking your measurement from the carcass or from the hide? Personally, while I take carcass measurements (with head straight out), I dont order the form until I have the hide tanned and ready to mount. I then take measurements from the hide laid out on a table. I will order the form based on the smaller of the two sets of measurements. The size of the head to the corresponding body - male vs female - can be an issue, particularly with one particular line of forms.

 

Recently sold my Case 580CK backhoe and looking to pick up a mini ex. What would be the smallest size unit that would be able to remove tree stumps? Thanks!

 

How did it escape you that you are on a taxidermy site that has nothing to do with excavation equipment?

 

For myself, I tend to favor giving circumference measurement priority on bobcats. I find it easier to add or subtract an inch or two of length than have to adjust the girth.
For big cats we just get the measurement as close as we can. We understand we are going to be altering those forms.