Introduction
The glint of polished bone, the majestic silhouette against the wall – a European mount. It’s a timeless tribute to a successful hunt, a striking piece of decor, and a way to preserve the memory of the animal. But the journey from the field to that beautifully displayed skull can be quite the project. One popular method, debated and discussed among hunters, involves a process that’s both natural and, potentially, a little unsettling: burying the deer head. But *can you bury a deer head for a European mount* and, more importantly, *should* you? Let’s delve into the details.
From experienced hunters to those just starting out, the lure of a DIY European mount is strong. It’s often seen as a more cost-effective and rewarding approach than relying on professional taxidermists. But this self-sufficiency brings responsibilities. And one of those is the careful cleaning of the skull. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparation to display, providing a thorough understanding of burying as a cleaning method, alongside the pros and cons, and offering some compelling alternatives. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to bury a deer head for your European mount will depend on your situation, your location, and your comfort level.
The Burying Method: The Step-by-Step Reality
The prospect of burying a deer head for a European mount might seem straightforward, but several crucial steps ensure a successful and, most importantly, *safe* outcome. Failing to adhere to these can lead to disappointment, potential health hazards, and even legal complications.
Prepare for the Task
Safety isn’t just about your well-being; it’s about preserving your experience. Before even considering digging a hole, prioritize your health and adhere to any local, state, or federal regulations. Always wear sturdy gloves. Thick rubber or nitrile gloves are essential when handling any part of the deer, minimizing direct contact with potential pathogens. This is especially important considering the increasing concerns about diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), which can affect deer populations. Research your local area’s guidelines on animal carcass disposal and European mount regulations. You may need permits or have specific requirements to follow.
Initial Cleaning – Minimizing the Mess
The more meat and tissue you remove before burying, the better. This speeds up the decomposition process and reduces the chances of attracting unwanted scavengers. Use a sharp knife, a sturdy bone saw, or a dedicated deer-processing tool. Carefully remove as much of the meat from the skull as possible. Pay close attention to the areas around the eyes, nose, and ears, as these areas tend to hold more tissue. Skinning the head can also be beneficial, making the process more efficient. A good initial clean will also minimize the potential for foul odors.
Selecting the Right Location
The location of your burial site is crucial for success. A poorly chosen spot can lead to a poorly cleaned skull, damage from environmental factors, or even legal issues. The ideal location should be away from areas where humans and other animals frequent to avoid any potential disease transmission or unwanted contact.
Soil composition plays a significant role. Well-drained soil is paramount. Clay-rich soils can retain water, hindering the decomposition process and potentially causing the head to rot rather than decompose. Sandy or loamy soils with good drainage are preferable.
Consider sun exposure. Direct sunlight can help warm the soil, potentially accelerating decomposition, but also, can dry the soil and potentially dry out the flesh. Consider a spot with partial shade to maintain a more consistent temperature.
Water tables are another important consideration. Avoid burying the head in an area where the water table is close to the surface, as this can lead to flooding and prevent decomposition.
Finally, think about accessibility. While the burial site should be discreet, it should also be easily accessible for you to retrieve the skull when the time comes. Make sure you have easy access for when you may want to dig it up.
The Burying Process: A Practical Guide
Now that the prep work is complete, it’s time to bury the head.
The hole should be deep enough to fully submerge the head, ideally about two to three feet deep. The depth protects it from scavengers and helps maintain a more consistent temperature. Ensure the hole is wide enough to comfortably accommodate the deer head.
Position the head carefully. A slight angle, allowing for drainage, can be helpful. Make sure the skull is positioned so that the antlers (if present) are not in contact with the soil, which could potentially stain them.
Cover the head with a layer of soil, and consider covering the hole with some wooden boards or a piece of wire mesh before fully backfilling it with soil. This helps prevent scavengers from reaching the head.
Finally, carefully mark the location. A clear marker is essential for easy retrieval. Use a stake, a GPS point, or prominent natural features nearby. Write down the date of the burial. Time is a crucial factor.
Timeline Expectations
Decomposition time is highly variable, affected by factors such as climate, soil type, and the initial amount of tissue remaining. In warmer climates with well-draining soil, it may take a few months. In colder climates, or in clay-rich soils, it may take six months to a year, or longer.
Checking on the progress, while tempting, can be tricky. Avoid disturbing the burial site frequently. You’ll know the process is working when you find very little tissue and more of the bone, and potentially some missing bone.
The Good Sides of Burial
The appeal of burying stems from its reliance on natural processes.
It taps into the power of soil organisms. Bacteria, fungi, and insects are natural decomposers, breaking down organic material. This means minimal active involvement after the initial setup, making it a more “hands-off” approach compared to some other methods.
It can be a cost-effective method. You don’t have to invest in expensive equipment or specialized chemicals. All you really need is a shovel.
While there are some challenges, in the right conditions, burying can be a relatively effortless method. However, even with these benefits, there are some crucial issues.
The Challenges and Complications
Burying a deer head, despite its simplicity, presents a range of potential difficulties.
Time is often a major factor. Decomposition can be a slow process, potentially taking months or even a year. This extended waiting period can be frustrating for those eager to display their European mount.
The decomposition process is unpredictable. The final outcome can vary greatly depending on numerous factors. This unpredictability can lead to incomplete cleaning, or to potential damage to the skull.
Environmental factors can pose challenges. Water saturation, rodent infestations, and the presence of scavenging animals can all hinder the decomposition process, or even damage the skull.
Unpleasant odors are often associated with decomposition. The smell can linger, especially during the initial stages of the process.
It’s also important to consider health-related concerns. While the risk is often overstated, pathogens can persist in the soil, posing potential health risks.
Be aware of the threat of disease, such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). CWD is a prion disease that affects deer and other cervids. The disease is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids, contaminated environments, and infected carcasses. Burying can potentially spread the disease, depending on the state or local regulations. Always consult with your local wildlife agency to understand the regulations in your area regarding CWD and European mounts.
Alternatives to Burying
If the potential drawbacks of burying worry you, several alternative methods are available, offering varying degrees of convenience, control, and complexity.
Boiling is a commonly used method, which can speed up the cleaning process. The head is submerged in boiling water for several hours, carefully removing any remaining tissue. While boiling may be faster than burying, be careful not to boil for too long. The bone can become brittle and damage the skull. Be sure to degrease and bleach your antlers.
Maceration involves submerging the head in water for an extended period. The water is often changed periodically, allowing bacteria to break down the organic matter. Maceration is a more gentle process than boiling. It requires patience but tends to result in better bone preservation.
A more advanced method involves the use of Dermestid beetles. These specialized insects are used to consume the remaining tissue from the skull, resulting in a very clean and pristine finish. Dermestid beetles need a specific environment, and this method does require dedicated equipment.
After Burial: The Finishing Touches
Once the skull has been underground for the appropriate amount of time, the retrieval process begins.
Carefully excavate the skull. Try not to disturb any of the buried materials near the skull.
Remove any remaining tissue, paying attention to the finer details. Use a knife, wire brush, or pressure washer.
To remove stains, and enhance the final look of the skull, consider bleaching. Hydrogen peroxide solutions are commonly used, but be careful not to over-bleach.
Finally, mount the cleaned skull. Various mounting options are available, from simple plaques to more elaborate displays.
Final Thoughts
*Can you bury a deer head for a European mount*? The answer is yes, but it comes with several considerations. Burying can be a viable option, but success hinges on your dedication, and the local environmental factors.
It is best if you evaluate your situation. Are you in an area with well-drained soil? Do you have the time and patience? Are you prepared for potential challenges?
If the answer to these questions is yes, and you are willing to take the necessary precautions, burying can be a rewarding method. However, if you are short on time, live in a less than ideal location, or are concerned about any of the potential drawbacks, the alternatives should be considered.
Ultimately, the best method is the one that aligns with your circumstances, your goals, and your comfort level. Consider the pros and cons of each approach, and decide what works best for you.
Remember, the goal is a beautifully preserved European mount. So, take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process.
