How to Cure a Squirrel Hide: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experienced Taxidermists
Curing a squirrel hide is a rewarding process that preserves a piece of nature's beauty. Whether you're a seasoned taxidermist or a curious beginner, this guide offers a detailed, step-by-step approach to ensure your squirrel hide is properly cured and ready for tanning or other preservation methods. This process focuses on achieving a supple, durable hide suitable for various crafting projects.
Essential Tools and Materials:
Before you begin, gather the following:
- Sharp Knife or Scalpel: Crucial for precise fleshing and removal of excess tissue.
- Fleshing Beam: A sturdy, curved beam aids in scraping the hide clean. A smooth, rounded piece of wood works as a substitute.
- Brain Spoon: Used to remove the brain from the skull (essential for preventing rot).
- Non-iodized Salt: The cornerstone of curing, drawing out moisture and inhibiting bacterial growth. Avoid iodized salt as the iodine can discolor the hide.
- Borax (optional): Adds further protection against insect infestation and decay.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from potential contaminants and irritants.
- Airtight Container: For storing the salted hide during the curing process.
Step-by-Step Curing Process:
1. Preparation and Initial Cleaning:
- Immediately after skinning: The sooner you begin, the better. Begin by carefully removing any excess fat and tissue from the hide. Pay particular attention to the areas around the legs, tail, and head.
- Brain removal: If the squirrel's skull is still intact, use the brain spoon to carefully remove the brain matter. Thoroughly clean the skull cavity.
2. Salting the Hide:
- Generous application: Liberally cover both sides of the squirrel hide with non-iodized salt. Don't be shy; salt is key to drawing out moisture and preventing decay. You might use about 1 cup of salt for an average sized squirrel.
- Strategic placement: Pay extra attention to thicker areas like the legs and tail base, ensuring these areas are fully saturated with salt.
- Initial storage: Place the salted hide in an airtight container. This prevents moisture loss and helps maintain consistent curing.
3. Curing Time and Monitoring:
- Duration: The hide should remain salted for at least 3-5 days. The exact time depends on the squirrel's size, temperature, and humidity. Larger squirrels will require a longer curing period.
- Moisture check: After 3 days, check the hide for excess moisture. If the hide feels damp, add more salt and continue curing. If it feels dry to the touch, you can proceed.
4. Removing Excess Salt:
- Gentle brushing: After the curing period, gently brush off the excess salt using a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the hide.
5. Optional: Borax Treatment:
- Protecting against pests: Mix borax powder with a small amount of salt (a 1:1 ratio works well) and lightly dust the hide. This added step helps prevent insect damage during long-term storage or tanning.
Post-Curing Steps:
- Storage: Store the cured hide in a cool, dry place until you are ready for tanning or further preservation. You can store it in a breathable bag or wrapped loosely in paper towels.
- Tanning: The cured hide is now ready to be tanned. Various tanning methods exist, each requiring specific materials and techniques. Research options to find the best method for your skill level and desired outcome.
Important Considerations:
- Hygiene: Maintain a clean work environment throughout the process to avoid contamination.
- Safety: Use caution when handling sharp tools.
- Patience: Curing a squirrel hide takes time. Be patient and follow the steps carefully for optimal results.
By following these detailed steps, you'll successfully cure your squirrel hide, preserving it for future use in crafts or taxidermy. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Enjoy the process of learning and preserving nature's treasures!
