by Kodiak Bones | Aug 7, 2021 | Taxidermy
Mounted figures and skulls of birds, small mammals, and large game represent the art of taxidermy, or the preparing, stuffing, and mounting of skins of animals. Records of the practice date back to the 16th century. The art form has survived into the modern day to...
by Kodiak Bones | Aug 7, 2021 | Taxidermy
Skull cleaning is a process in which the skull of a hunted or trapped animal, or one that has expired due to natural causes, is prepared for display. It is an important step in taxidermy. However, it can be time-consuming, messy, and unpleasant, depending on the...
by Kodiak Bones | Aug 7, 2021 | Taxidermy
Taxidermists have a few options when it comes to preserving the bones of animal specimens. A few can be rather harsh, such as chemical treatments (i.e., tanning) and boiling, but skeletonization can be achieved in an easier, more natural way—with dermestid beetles. In...
by Kodiak Bones | Aug 6, 2021 | Taxidermy
Flesh-eating beetles, or dermestids, are harmless beetles that eat flesh off animal carcasses and human remains. The larvae of dermestid beetles feed continuously until all that’s left is bone. This process is known as skeletonization and is often used by...
by Kodiak Bones | Aug 6, 2021 | Taxidermy
Dermestid beetles are often used in taxidermy, as their larvae are efficient scavengers that feed on dead tissue until there’s nothing left but bone. Colonies need proper care to thrive. You’ll need a minimum of 300 beetles to get started, and 1,000 to 5,000 to...
by Kodiak Bones | Aug 6, 2021 | Taxidermy
Whether you’re a taxidermist who needs clean skulls, a hunter looking for a fresh trophy, or an artist or museum curator, dermestid beetles are efficient and thorough. These beetles used for taxidermy clean skulls and prevent damage from boiling or chemicals. You’ll...
