Field Care & Storage freezer storage

Once you have harvested a bird you might want mounted there are a few things you can do and look for to ensure a quality mount. The most important thing is getting the bird ion the freezer as soon as possible.

Check both wings and tail feathers for excessive shot damage and missing feathers. (Broken wings/legs can usually be repaired.)  If too much damage on a wing(s) an 'standing mount' would hide most if not all damages wing feathers. Also take into consideration that head shots are not he best mounts but not a deal breaker either.

Things to AVOID:

• Ringing the Neck
• Using the 'Finisher Tool'
• Hanging by the neck on a game strap

Once back to camp/home its time to package the bird for freezer storage, proper freezer storage will keep your bird fresh as the day harvested for 3-4 years.

What you will need:

• 2 gallon freezer bag (zip-lock style)
• Paper Towels
• Water
• Sharpie

How to Package:

• Label Freezer Bag with Sharpie providing the Species, Sex, Date Harvested, First and Last Name.
• With one paper towel and wet with water, wrap wet paper towel around the head where the bill meets the feathers.
• Take one paper towel on each leg and wet with water, wrap wet paper towel around each leg.
• Rest the specimens head on the back or belly of the body (NOT UNDER THE WING) and insert into the freezer bag.
• Remove ALL air in the bag 
• It is recommended to double bag for longer storage periods.
• Place in freezer for storage.