The Bare Bones operation

  We are based in Boise, Idaho and all of our European Mounts are done with the use of Dermestid Beetles.  After the specimens are picked clean by the beetles, they are degreased, bleached and dried.  The use of Dermestid Beetles ensures that connective tissues do not release excess amounts of grease and other staining elements into the bone that is a typical of a boiling process.  There are many variables that contribute to the quality of a mount.  Because no two skulls are alike, it is unreasonable to expect the same results every time.  Species, age, bone density, preparation process and time as well as the temperature, humidity and cleanliness of a specimen and beetle colony will contribute to the overall outcome and quality of a mount.