In this preparation protocol, we describe the practical approach to the preparation process of an Aldabra giant tortoise. The main focus is the particular difficulties of preparing specimens of this species. Firstly, the heavy weight of the animal requires a stable construction and handling considerations during the working process. Secondly, the requirements for tanning a reptile skin of this size are demanding. The structures that are highly visible under the skin must be properly represented, and this is only possible with tension-free skin conservation. After careful consideration, a cast was used as a head. Overall, the construction is built using a baseline grid, which serves as an orientation guide throughout the entire process in a forward oriented and comprehensive manner. In the painting process, the focus was to create a great depth effect. This project began December 2019 and was finished January 2021,

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Last issue we began this new article series on mounting an American alligator. That article introduced the two taxidermists who made this series of articles possible along with their procedures for skinning and fleshing with a pressure washer. It did not cover the procedure for properly cleaning the head because it is recommended to remove the head when skinning this reptile and freezing the head for the process shown in this article. This part of properly preparing and mounting a gator or creating a flat rug with an open-mouth head is critical for producing a professional piece of taxidermy that will be permanent and display a realistic product your customer will be proud to display.

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Not that it’s worth anything, but from time to time I will be asked for my advice from some aspiring young person about the prospect of him taking up taxidermy as a hobby or, I shudder to say, as a career choice. Some skinny-jean clad pup will come up to me and ask, “Yo, Gramps, what does it take to become a ‘critter stuffer?’ It don’t look that complicated, plus, if someone as old as you can still do it, how hard could it be?” The thing about smart alecks is they never see the whole picture.

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It can be really challenging to find a base that perfectly fits your animal, but is there ever really a perfect fit? There is with Contour Sheet! The revolutionary product from Scenes-n-Nature allows THE you to quickly and effortlessly create custom bases that perfectly fit any mount, eliminating floating feet for good.

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LIPS and MOUTH

Shape: Lower (frontal), Upper, Corners: The front of the bottom lip normally shows a bit and should gently touch the top lips where they arc into the cleft. There should be some definition between lower and upper. As the upper lips continue rearward, they should show some arc as they reach the back corner.

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