Shoulder Mounts Taxidermy

Shoulder mounts in taxidermy are a popular and impactful way to display an animal, focusing on the head, neck, and shoulders. These mounts offer a more substantial display than a head mount while still being manageable in size. Here’s an in-depth look at shoulder mounts:

1. Purpose and Uses

**a. Decorative Display

• Personal Collections: Shoulder mounts are often used as trophies or personal keepsakes, showcasing hunting achievements or a passion for wildlife.
• Interior Design: They can be a prominent feature in home decor, offices, or public spaces, adding a unique, natural element to the environment.

**b. Educational and Historical

• Museums and Educational Institutions: Used for educational displays to demonstrate wildlife anatomy, behavior, and conservation.
• Historical Significance: Shoulder mounts can reflect historical or cultural connections to specific animal species and their roles.

2. The Process of Creating a Shoulder Mount

**a. Preparation

• Specimen Selection: Choose a high-quality specimen with a well-preserved head, neck, and shoulders. The condition of the hide and antlers or horns is crucial.
• Pose and Position: Decide on the pose and expression of the mount. This will influence the entire mounting process and ensure a lifelike appearance.

**b. Skinning and Preservation

• Skinning: The animal is skinned from the base of the skull and down to include part of the shoulders. Care is taken to avoid damage to the hide.
• Preservation: The skin is treated to prevent decay, which may involve salting, pickling, or using commercial preservation solutions.

**c. Creating the Form

• Form Construction: A form is sculpted from foam or other materials to replicate the animal’s head, neck, and shoulders. The form should accurately reflect the animal’s anatomy.
• Customization: The form is customized to match specific anatomical details, such as muscle structure and skin folds.

**d. Mounting the Specimen

• Fitting the Skin: The preserved skin is carefully fitted onto the form, ensuring that it aligns correctly and looks natural.
• Detailing: Special attention is given to the details of the head, neck, and shoulders, including the eyes, ears, and fur texture.
• Attaching Antlers or Horns: If applicable, antlers or horns are securely attached and positioned according to the desired pose.

**e. Finishing Touches

• Eyes and Ears: Realistic eyes and ears are used to enhance the lifelike quality of the mount.
• Painting and Touch-Ups: The mount may be painted or touched up to enhance color and detail, ensuring a natural appearance.

3. Display and Maintenance

**a. Mounting

• Installation: Shoulder mounts are typically displayed on walls or mounted on plaques. They should be positioned to highlight their best features.
• Positioning: Proper lighting and placement can enhance the mount’s appearance and ensure it complements the surrounding decor.

**b. Care

• Cleaning: Regular dusting with a soft brush or cloth helps keep the mount clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or water.
• Pest Control: Inspect regularly for pests such as beetles or moths. Pest repellents or treatments can help protect the mount.
• Environmental Factors: Keep the mount away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture to prevent fading and deterioration.

4. Ethical and Legal Considerations

• Legal Compliance: Ensure that the specimen was obtained legally and ethically. This includes following regulations related to wildlife protection and obtaining necessary permits.
• Sustainability: Consider the impact of using wildlife specimens. Opt for animals that have died of natural causes or were part of regulated populations when possible.

5. Applications and Trends

• Custom Orders: Many taxidermists offer custom shoulder mounts, allowing clients to choose specific poses, backgrounds, or additional features.
• Cultural Significance: Shoulder mounts can have cultural or ceremonial importance, reflecting traditional practices and beliefs in various cultures.

Shoulder mounts in taxidermy provide a detailed and prominent way to preserve and display an animal, showcasing its natural beauty and characteristics. They require careful craftsmanship and maintenance to ensure a lifelike and enduring representation.