"Grow Minds by Exciting Senses!" WE ARE OTC: Producers of On-location Television ... Specializing in Outdoor Film Projects.
The images on these pages are graphic and present wildlife being prepared for TAXIDERMY.
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Although no match for Moose Taxidermy, Black Bear is challenging to work with and Eldon Jandreau makes it seem easy.
This 200-pound bear will be preserved as an heirloom rug for a client. It appears Bear Skin Rugs are HIGHLY sought after.
Making room for three cameras and special lighting cramps any taxidermist's style!
A nip here and a tuck there...every detail will be addressed over several days as the putty hardens and the glues dry.
A Black Bear without the fur. This head will be prepared for a European Mount (opposite).
A comparison of skulls after "treatment." Many hunters use such "cleaned" heads as paper weights!
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Naked as a "J-Bird" this form is ready for its tanned mount. Notice the putty in areas under the armpits and around the eyes!
The taxidermist must be a master of anatomical knowledge, especially with sensitive areas requiring a steady scalpel (like splitting the lips and around the eyes).
"YOU HAVE TO LOVE WHAT YOU DO..."
It is truly rare for a Taxidermist to allow a film crew to work around the studio. (Especially three cameras, 6 lights and cordless mikes recounting every detail.) Eldon Jandreau allows us to share secrets he has learned over 30 years. You will undoubtedly enjoy this series (TAXIDERMY) as we prepare to offer both big game taxidermy and its often-gory detail.
Placing the bear skin (fur) onto a form for a nice tight "fit." Note the piece of cardboad in the ear.
Mounting the eyes. The bear has a BLUE pupil, which is generally unknown.
NIP and TUCK. That pretty much describes the artful manner in which a bear's "fur" is re-formed.
"Open wide, now..." says the nice Taxidermist..."while I putty up your big lips." The use of slow drying putty and glue allows movement of the skin on the form for several days. Why? Because the hide is wet from having been soaked.
Taking a "cue from the pros," Eldon allowed three cameras in his studio to film every detail of taxidermy. The crew enjoyed filming into the afternoon on what was clearly, "a rare treat."
"He's beginning to look more like a bear."
"And don't forget to do the nails while puttying-up the claws."
