Hunting and trapping squirrels can be a rewarding experience, but the process doesn't end with the catch. Preserving the hide properly is crucial for creating lasting mounts or utilizing the fur for other crafts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps of curing a squirrel hide, ensuring your efforts result in a high-quality, usable product.
Preparing the Squirrel Hide for Curing
Before you begin the curing process, proper preparation is key. This ensures the hide remains supple and free from damage.
1. Skinning the Squirrel:
- Sharp Tools are Crucial: Use a sharp knife or scalpel to minimize damage to the hide during skinning. A dull blade will tear and puncture the hide, leading to imperfections and potential spoilage.
- Careful Removal: Begin by making an incision from the inside of the hind legs, carefully working your way up the body, over the shoulders, and down the front legs. Avoid cutting too deeply into the flesh.
- Clean Separation: Once the skin is separated from the carcass, carefully remove any remaining bits of fat and muscle tissue. This is crucial for preventing rot and attracting insects.
2. Fleshing the Hide:
- Proper Fleshing Tools: Use a fleshing knife or beam to remove all remaining flesh and fat from the inner side of the hide. Be meticulous; even small amounts of residual flesh can cause problems during the curing process.
- Even Thickness: Aim for an even thickness across the entire hide. This will ensure even tanning and a superior final product.
Curing Methods for Squirrel Hides
Several methods exist for curing squirrel hides. The best method will depend on your resources, experience, and desired outcome.
1. Salt Curing:
This is a traditional and reliable method for preserving hides.
- Salt Application: Liberally cover the flesh side of the hide with non-iodized salt. Use enough salt to completely cover the entire surface, ensuring even penetration.
- Storage: Place the salted hide in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Allow it to cure for 3-7 days, depending on the size of the squirrel and the temperature. Flip the hide regularly to ensure even salt penetration.
- Washing: After curing, rinse the hide thoroughly with cool water to remove all traces of salt. Do not soak the hide, as this can damage it.
2. Borax Curing:
Borax is a natural mineral that's effective in preserving hides.
- Borax Application: Similar to salt curing, generously apply borax to the flesh side of the hide.
- Storage: Place the hide in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area and let it cure for 3-7 days. Again, regular flipping is recommended for even drying.
- Washing: Thoroughly rinse the hide with cool water after curing.
Post-Curing and Preservation
Once the hide is cured, it's ready for tanning or other preservation methods.
1. Tanning:
Tanning converts the hide into leather, making it durable and resistant to decay. Numerous tanning methods exist, from commercially available kits to traditional brain tanning. Research the best tanning method based on your experience and resources.
2. Storage:
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the cured hide. Store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, ideally wrapped in breathable material to prevent damage from pests or moisture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Hide Slipping: If the hide feels slippery or slimy after curing, it might not have been sufficiently fleshed.
- Unpleasant Odor: A strong odor indicates incomplete curing or inadequate fleshing. Re-salt or re-apply borax, as needed.
- Hide Damage: Damage during skinning will be more apparent after curing. Take care to minimize cuts and tears during the initial skinning process.
Conclusion
Curing a squirrel hide successfully takes practice and attention to detail. Following these steps diligently will greatly increase your chances of obtaining a high-quality hide suitable for mounting, crafting, or other uses. Remember to always prioritize safety when using sharp tools and handling animal hides. With patience and practice, you can master this valuable skill.
