how to whiten a deer head

Introduction

Whitening a deer head, commonly known as bleaching, is a process that can give the skull a clean and aesthetic appeal, especially if you’re preparing it for a European mount display. It’s not only a way to honor your hunting trophy but can also be a compelling piece of natural history decor. Below I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to whiten a deer head correctly, ensuring you achieve that desired bleached bone look while preserving the integrity of the skull.

Materials Needed

• Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution commonly found in drug stores, or a stronger version from a beauty supply store)
• A plastic tub or container large enough to fit the skull
• Gloves and safety glasses
• Plastic wrap
• A paintbrush or a sponge
• Mild dish detergent
• Water

Step 1: Clean the Skull

Before whitening, ensure that the deer head is as clean as possible, with all flesh and hair removed. This process involves skinning, fleshing, and degreasing the skull. You may also boil the skull gently with a bit of detergent to help in removing remaining tissue, but take care not to boil too vigorously as this could damage the bones or cause them to lose their natural articulation.

Step 2: Soak in Hydrogen Peroxide

Once the skull is clean, prepare it for whitening by soaking it in hydrogen peroxide. Follow these sub-steps:

1. Fill your plastic tub with enough hydrogen peroxide to cover the deer skull.
2. Place the skull in the solution and ensure it is completely submerged. If necessary, use a weight to keep it under the liquid.
3. Cover the container with plastic wrap to maintain the strength of the peroxide and prevent evaporation.
4. Allow the skull to soak. This can take several hours to a day, depending on the strength of the hydrogen peroxide and the level of whiteness desired.

Step 3: Check and Rinse the Skull

Check the skull periodically. Once the skull reaches the whiteness you’re satisfied with:

1. Remove the skull carefully from the hydrogen peroxide.
2. Rinse it thoroughly with water to remove all of the peroxide residues.
3. Let it air dry completely.

Step 4: Touch-up Whitening (Optional)

If some areas did not whiten as much as others, you can touch up those spots:

1. Dip a paintbrush or sponge into hydrogen peroxide.
2. Gently apply it to the areas that need extra whitening.
3. Cover these spots with plastic wrap to keep the area moist and allow the peroxide to work.
4. After an hour or so, remove the wrap and rinse the skull again.

Additional Tips

To avoid compromising the integrity of the skull:

• Do not use bleach as it can weaken the bone over time and may give the skull a yellowish tint.
• Always handle peroxide with care and use gloves and protective eyewear.
• Ensure a well-ventilated area during the whitening process.

Conclusion

Whitening a deer head is relatively simple and can greatly enhance the look of your trophy. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you’ll be able to achieve a professional-looking European mount that you can display with pride. Keep in mind that the process requires patience and attention to detail to ensure the best results.