How to Dry Preserve a Snake: A Comprehensive Guide

Dry preserving, also known as skin mounting, is a traditional taxidermy technique used to preserve the skin and scales of a snake while maintaining its natural appearance. This method is commonly employed in museums, educational institutions, and by hobbyists who wish to create lasting displays of their snake specimens.

Materials Needed:

• Freshly deceased snake
• Skinning knife or scalpel
• Forceps
• Scissors
• Curing salt (non-iodized)
• Glass eyes (optional)
• Mounting board or plaque
• Pins or nails
• Wire or string
• Display case (optional)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare the Snake:
   • Immediately after the snake’s death, place it in a freezer to prevent decomposition.
   • Thaw the snake slowly at room temperature before preserving.
2. Skinning and Fleshing:
   • Lay the snake on a flat surface. Using a sharp knife, carefully make an incision along the underside of the snake, from the cloaca to the head.
   • Use forceps to gently peel the skin away from the underlying muscle and connective tissue.
   • Once the skin is completely removed, remove all remaining flesh and fat from the inside of the skin.
3. Curing and Tanning:
   • Apply a generous amount of curing salt to the inside of the skin.
   • Fold the skin lengthwise and place it in a plastic bag.
   • Store the bag in a cool, dry place for 7-10 days, flipping the skin occasionally.
   • Rinse the skin thoroughly with water and pat dry.
4. Mounting the Snake:
   • Select a suitable mounting board or plaque that is large enough to accommodate the snake’s length.
   • Position the snake’s skin on the board, with the head at one end and the tail at the other.
   • Use pins or nails to secure the skin to the board.
   • (Optional) Add glass eyes to the snake’s head to enhance its appearance.
   • Gently curve the snake’s body to create a natural-looking pose.
5. Drying and Finishing:
   • Allow the mounted snake to dry completely. This may take several weeks or months, depending on the size and thickness of the skin.
   • Once dry, remove the pins or nails and gently brush away any dirt or debris.
   • (Optional) Apply a thin coat of sealant to protect the skin from moisture and UV damage.
6. Displaying the Preserved Snake:
   • Choose a suitable display case or frame to showcase the preserved snake.
   • Carefully position the snake inside the display case and secure it in place.
   • Add a label with information about the snake, such as its species, location, and date of preservation.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results:

• Use sharp, clean tools to prevent damage to the snake’s skin.
• Work slowly and carefully to avoid tearing or stretching the skin.
• Apply curing salt evenly and thoroughly to the inside of the skin to prevent spoilage.
• Mount the snake in a natural-looking pose to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
• Display the preserved snake in a suitable location to protect it from direct sunlight and moisture.

Conclusion:

Dry preserving a snake is a rewarding and educational experience that allows you to create a lasting memento of a fascinating creature. By following the steps outlined in this guide and applying the provided tips, you can achieve professional-looking results that will be admired by fellow enthusiasts and visitors alike.

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