Quality taxidermy starts in the field.  Avoid making any unwanted cuts in the hide.  If possible avoid excessive rub marks in hide caused by dragging game.  If you’re unable to get your trophy to your taxidermist quickly, freeze it in a plastic bag.  Place it skin side out and freeze as flat as possible.  If it is a smaller animal such as a fox or coyote and a life size mount is desired, freeze whole in a bag.

For birds, care for the feathers is very important. In the field place the bird in a woman’s nylon (stocking). Tuck the head under a wing.  Place your hand in the nylon and grab the bird from the front by the wings and carefully pull the nylon over the bird.  This will keep the bird’s feathers laying tight to body.  The bird can then be placed in a  plastic bag and frozen.