Since that time several works have appeared from the pens of English and American authors. Prominently among the American writers, were Charles Waterton and Titian R. Peale who greatly improved the art in this country.
Jules Verreaux, of Paris, brought the art to a still higher perfection, and introduced methods for giving to specimens a life-like expression, which elevated it quite to the realm of higher art. Great were his accomplishments in the art of expressing the actions and characteristic attitudes of the living animals. Since his day taxidermy has rivaled the plastic art, and today, it has reached such a degree of perfection that the most artistic and æsthetic effects may be wrought by the hands of any operator who possesses artistic faculties. The Illinois State Natural History Society of Bloomington, published an illustrated pamphlet from the pen of one Mr. Holder, which is a very valuable contribution to taxidermic literature. The author was doubtless greatly improved by his associations with Audubon and Bell, and in his book he gives the results of a ripe experience. This book ranks as one of the best yet published. We submit the results of our own patient study and practical experience, and hope it may prove a worthy addition.
ARTICLE I.
ON SKINNING, STUFFING AND PRESERVATION OF BIRDS.
SKINNING.
No. 3.
Immediately after the bird is killed, the nostrils, throat and wounds should be stuffed with cotton to prevent the blood from oozing out and staining the plumage; but should any blood get on the plumage, it should be removed as soon as possible. This can be done by taking a cloth or sponge and dipping it in clean water, wringing it out so as to leave it only moist, and rubbing the feathers gently until all traces of blood stain are removed. Now sprinkle the feathers with plaster of paris, and shake out before it sets. Repeat this until they are perfectly dry, and then wrap the specimen in paper to protect the plumage until ready to skin, which should be done as soon as the bird cools.
No. 2.
In proceeding to skin a bird, spread a cloth on a board or table and lay the bird on its back. Separate the feathers on the breast with a scalpel or knife. Insert the knife at the top of breast-bone and cut the skin from there to the tail. Great care should be taken not to cut too deep over the intestines, as it is only necessary to cut through the skin. Now begin where you first inserted the knife and proceed to separate the skin from the flesh, either with the fingers or the back of the scalpel or knife. Tear some small pieces of paper, say about an inch square, and put under the skin on the flesh as you get them separated, which will keep the feathers from sticking to the flesh and becoming soiled; or sprinkling cornmeal over the flesh and skin while skinning, will answer the same purpose. Press carefully down each side to backbone. Now press the thighs forward and inward, draw the skin from the thighs, unjointing them at the first joint from the body.