Last October many of you may have learn of the passing of Lannie Ballard, a man of many talents and a long time friend of mine. Lannie lived 84 productive years and even during his final battle with breast cancer (rare for men) and liver cancer, he decided to donate his body to the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in the hope that he could contribute to research of the human body and cancer as well as other diseases. That was Lannie, always doing what he could in helping others at schools, community functions, his church, and the many associations he served.

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For the next couple issues we will bring you some bird reference and information on quail of the Americas with a strong focus on the North American species. According to the Quail Forever website, there are six native species of quail that are found in North America, and all of them benefit from the work of Quail Forever. Although these six species are similar in size, quail species throughout the United States differ greatly in their native habitat conditions.

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Before skinning a snake I find it necessary to measure it, carve a custom form, and mold the head. Keep the snake refrigerated when not needed for any of these processes. Skin and tan/cure the skin as soon as possible and freeze it. When all is prepared and ready and the time is right mount the snake. These are my processes, but there are many ways to mount a snake. You can buy a commercial form, make a death cast mold and cast a body mannikin, carve a form, use a commercial head, or mold the head yourself. You can even make a rubber mold for detailed casting and paint the artificial reproduction. It is your choice, but enjoy the process, and have fun doing it.

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