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How to Mount a Life-Sized Gray Fox

The gray fox is a type of small fox commonly found in North America. It is known for its distinct fur, which makes it a popular target for hunters. Mounted gray foxes can be found in cabins, hunting supply stores and museums all over the world. Due to their small size, this animal can be easily fitted for a life size mount and put on display indoors. By understanding a few fox mounting procedures, you can mount your own life-sized gray fox.

Things You'll Need

  • Fox mold
  • Taxidermy thread
  • Taxidermy preservative
  • Taxidermy wire
  • Threading needle
  • Skinning knife
  • Faux fox eyes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a fox mold from a taxidermy store. Select a mold that is appropriate to the size of the gray fox. If the mold is too big or too small, the skin will not fit properly nd will look unnatural. Purchase taxidermy thread for stitching the skin, preservative for the mouth and nose, faux eyes and wire for shaping the tail.

    • 2

      Prepare the fox to be skinned. Locate a skinning knife and put on a pair of rubber gloves. Make an incision at the base of the neck and cut the skin in a straight line all the way down the tail bone. Carefully pull the skin downward on each side and over the head. Use the knife to gently release the skin as you move downward. Continue this until the skin is completely removed from the body. Dispose of the remaining body.

    • 3

      Use a razor blade or fleshing tool to remove any excess fat or skin from the inner part of the skin. Excess areas of skin can make it lay unevenly on the mount and may cause a bad odor from decay. Wash the fur with warm soapy water to remove any remaining dirt and blood. Dry the fur with a dryer or towel. Careful, over drying the fur may cause it to shrink.

    • 4

      Shave any areas of the mold that are too large for the skin. Cover the mold with the fur, gently sliding the skin over each foot. Insert the shaping wire into the tail and position. Stretch the skin tightly over the mold. Adjust the face and mouth of the fox into the correct position.

    • 5

      Stitch the skin back together on the back. The stitch should be tight to prevent separation as the skin dries. Inject preservative into the nose and mouth to prevent decay. You will then place a small amount of glue to the faux eyes and insert them into the correct position. Place the mount in a dry area to allow the skin to cure for at least two weeks. Check the mount every few days to ensure the skin is still correctly positioned.


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