Realistic Wildlife Taxidermy

Marcus Thomas

Step-by-step guide to mounting a bison head — Guide

Achieving a lifelike and majestic display of a bison head requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of the species' unique anatomy. At Realistic Wildlife Taxidermy, we believe that every mount tells a story, and a properly mounted bison head captures the raw power and dignity of this iconic herbivore for generations to come. Whether you are a seasoned artist or a dedicated hobbyist, following a structured approach ensures the final piece honors the memory of the animal.

Selecting the Right Bison Head for Your Project

The journey begins long before the head touches the board. The foundation of any successful bison mount is a sturdy, flat mounting board that mimics the natural terrain where the animal stood. For bison, a thick hardwood board is often preferred to withstand the weight of the hide and the tension of the horns. Before attaching the head, you must ensure the specimen is fully preserved, with the skin stretched tight and the head carefully detached from the body without damaging the skull or horn bases.

Once the hide is prepared, the next critical step is the preparation of the mounting board itself. We recommend sanding the surface to a fine smoothness to prevent any rough spots from showing through the hide later. It is essential to measure the board accurately, accounting for the thickness of the head and the space needed for the legs if they are included in the display.

Aligning the Skull and Horns

The positioning of the bison head is perhaps the most delicate aspect of the entire process. Bison heads are heavy and require careful balancing to prevent strain on the glue or the hide. The skull must be oriented to face forward or slightly angled, depending on the desired aesthetic, while the horns should be positioned naturally as they would be in the field.

To achieve this alignment, you can use a custom jig or simply rely on your spatial awareness during the dry-fitting phase before applying any adhesives. The key is to visualize the head in its final position, ensuring the ears are at the correct height relative to the eyes and that the snout points towards the intended focal point of the display.

  1. Place the head on the board without glue to test the angle.
  2. Adjust the position until the horns look balanced and natural.
  3. Mark the board with a pencil where the hide should be pinned or glued.
  4. Apply a thin, even layer of high-quality taxidermy glue only to the marked areas.
  5. Gently press the hide into place, starting from the center and working outward.

Tools and Materials Needed for Bison Head Mounting

With the base prepared and the head aligned, the focus shifts to securing the hide to the board. This stage demands steady hands and an eye for detail. The hide must be stretched taut to avoid creases, wrinkles, or sagging, which can ruin the realistic appearance of the mount. We typically use a combination of liquid glue and mechanical fasteners to ensure a secure bond that will last for decades.

When working with the sensitive areas around the eyes, muzzle, and ears, extra care must be taken not to distort the natural contours of the face. The glue should be applied sparingly to avoid pooling, which can cause the skin to bubble or lift over time. It is helpful to have a helper assist with holding the head steady while you work, as bison heads are significantly heavier than those of smaller species.

Once the glue has set slightly, you can begin pinning the hide to the board. Use small, clean pins to anchor the skin, removing them gradually as the glue fully cures. This method allows for slight adjustments should any part of the hide shift during the drying process. As you work, constantly step back to assess the overall proportion and symmetry of the head.

Step-by-Step Mounting Process for a Bison Head

The bison is renowned for its impressive horns and thick, shaggy mane, and these features must be styled with great attention to detail. The horns should follow the natural curve and spread of the animal, with the tips positioned according to the specific breed characteristics. Using a suitable wax or resin, you can gently shape the horn bases if necessary to ensure they blend seamlessly with the skull.

For the mane, the goal is to create volume and texture that mimics the coarse, flowing hair of a real bison. This often involves back-combing the hair to create depth and then wrapping it around the neck and shoulders. The mane should appear as if it is blowing in a natural wind direction, adding a dynamic element to the static display.

To finish the mane styling, you can apply a light mist of hairspray or a specialized taxidermy finisher to hold the hairs in place without making them feel greasy. The lighting in the display area will play a crucial role here; adjust the angle of the lights to highlight the texture of the mane and the gleam of the horns, enhancing the overall realism of the piece.

Final Touches and Display Considerations

The final stage involves reviewing the entire mount from multiple angles to identify any inconsistencies or areas that need refinement. Check the balance of the head, the tension of the hide, and the flow of the mane. If any glue spots are visible, carefully blend them with surrounding areas using a soft cloth. Clean up any stray hairs or debris to ensure a pristine finish.

When considering the display location, think about the viewing distance and the lighting conditions of the room. A bison mount is best viewed from a specific angle, so position the board so that the face is the primary focal point. Ensure the background is neutral enough to allow the colors of the bison's coat and the grandeur of its horns to stand out.

By following these steps and adhering to best practices, you can create a bison head mount that is not only taxidermically accurate but also emotionally resonant. Remember that patience is your most valuable tool; rushing any step can compromise the integrity of the piece. With dedication and the right techniques, your bison mount will become a stunning tribute to nature's beauty.

Related reading