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In stage three, modifications to the body form begin. In this case, the head needed to be lengthened to match the cougar I had
harvested. Body forms come in many, easy to mold, shape and modify mediums. These body modification are accomplished by several methods. Actually cutting the  body mold and changing shape is often needed to get the fit of
your mount correct. Muscle grouping, bulges, and distinguishing characteristics can easily be added with a material much like common auto body putty. The simple additions can make or break a
mounts final look. This is where the Art of Taxidermy actually begins. A Taxidermist must have a good understanding of the animal we is working on. They need to know how the animal moves in it's natural
environment, lives it's daily life, reacts to elements it may come in contact with and then be able to envision these into the piece. Molding and shaping it into a recreation of life.
 Many mounts are missing these subtle
elements that would have added so much more to the final product, if time had been taken to create an accurate reproduction. Good Taxidermists know, they are given a talent and strive
hard to treat the animal with the respect a trophy deserves. To the hunter that brought the animal into the shop, this is his dream! Usually, the animal they have spent endless hours
in pursuit of, learning to adapt to the animals ways to get closer and closer to this day. The day they want to honor for the rest of their life in memory, each time they see the mount hanging proudly on their wall.
The Mount Step 4.....
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© All Right Reserved, The Trail Master
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