How to Properly Mount a Wood Duck Drake and Hen

Introduction

Mounting a pair of wood ducks, specifically the drake and hen, can be a fulfilling way to preserve your hunting trophies. Not only do these ducks have vibrant colors and unique features, but they also hold a special place in the hearts of hunters and nature enthusiasts alike. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key steps and considerations for successfully mounting these beautiful birds.

Why Mount Wood Ducks?

Wood ducks are known for their striking appearance, with males (drakes) showcasing bright green heads and females (hens) sporting delicate patterns. Mounting them can serve as a lasting memory of a successful hunt or simply a way to appreciate their beauty.

Choosing the Right Specimens

When looking for wood ducks to mount:

  • Age and Condition: Ensure the ducks are in good health. Young, unblemished specimens will yield the best results.
  • Regulations: Check local hunting regulations to ensure compliance when selecting specimens.

The Mounting Process

1. Preparation

  • Skinning: Carefully skin the ducks, avoiding any damage to the feathers. Use sharp tools and a steady hand.
  • Preservation: You may need to use a preservative. Common methods include using borax or sending them to a professional taxidermist with expertise in waterfowl.

2. Selecting a Base

A suitable base for displaying your mount is crucial. Consider using:

  • A natural habitat scene for an authentic touch.
  • A simple pedestal base that focuses attention on the ducks.

3. Mounting Techniques

  • Wire frame: Create a sturdy frame to support the weight and shape of the ducks.
  • Pose: Decide on a natural pose. Wood ducks are often seen perched or flying, providing dynamic display options.

Professional Help vs. DIY

If you’re new to taxidermy, consider hiring a professional, especially for intricate cases like a paired mount. However, for those adventurous enough to try it themselves, plenty of resources are available, including tutorials and kits.

Conclusion

Successfully mounting a wood duck drake and hen takes time, patience, and practice. Whether you choose the DIY route or enlist professional help, the end result can serve as a stunning representation of your hunting experience. Happy mounting!

Feel free to share your tips or ask questions about the process below!

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To start, make sure you’re familiar with local regulations about hunting wood ducks. It’s essential to understand the seasons and bag limits before you head out. Always check with your state wildlife agency!

Absolutely! Legal considerations are a must. Also, don’t forget about the tags and permits—double-check that you have everything in order before going hunting!

Getting both the drake and hen is key for a complete mount. Drakes are stunning with their colors, but hens have their own beauty. It’s a great way to celebrate the species after a successful hunt!

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That’s a good point! You’ll want to handle both specimens carefully to preserve their feathers and form. Proper handling is essential for quality mounts later.

When collecting specimens, try to minimize damage to the feathers. Gently place the duck in a game bag and keep it cool until you can get it home or to a processing area. The better the handling, the better the mount!

Definitely important! Make sure to avoid getting any blood on the plumage, as that can stain and affect the final look of the mount.

A little tip: if you’re unsure about handling the feathers and flesh properly, it might be a good idea to practice with something else first! It’s always better to learn on less valuable specimens.

That’s wise advice! I learned the hard way with a few other species. It’s all about practice and patience. Plus, it keeps the pressure low for your first real mounts.

Is it better to skin the birds immediately or wait until you get home? I’ve heard both sides, and I’m curious about others’ experiences on the best approach!

I’ve always skinned them immediately! It seems to prevent any potential issues with spoilage. Plus, it allows for better preservation of the feathers.

I like the idea of a wood duck-themed trophy wall! Just imagine how vibrant that will look once mounted. It would definitely be a conversation starter during gatherings!

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That sounds incredible! Just imagine the hues of the drakes against a backdrop of snowy white or deep green—it would be stunning!

To mount a wood duck drake correctly, start by skinning it properly to preserve the plumage. Make sure you remove any excess fat. This is key for preventing decay!

Thanks for the tip, thomas01! Preserving the feathers is definitely important. What are the best materials for preserving the skin once it’s skinned?

For preservation, I recommend using a mix of borax and salt. It’s an effective way to keep the feathers intact while preventing smell and decay. Just be cautious with the amounts!

Great suggestion, moralesralph! How do you apply it to ensure it works effectively?

Just coat the skin evenly with the borax-salt mixture, then place it in a cool, dry place. Make sure to remove any moisture as it can ruin your mount later!

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I’m new to this and appreciate all these insights! How long do you typically let the borax mixture sit before moving to the mounting stage?

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Leave the mixture on for about 24 to 48 hours to fully dry and preserve the skin. It’s a bit of a waiting game, but worth it for a great mount!