for anyone knowlegable;

how long can a tanned hide remain in storage
at room temp? or in a refrigerator?

what would be the best way to wrap/store the hide in the refrig' for long term storage?

what is the likely damage that will occur to the hide from long term storage, shrinkage?

many thanks

cold zero

Howdy!

I'm assuming by your question that you are going to mount the bear but want to keep the hide stable until you are ready to mount it at a later date.

Having owned a taxidermy shop for several years, I would tell you that if it is dry tanned, it will have an average "shelf life" of about one year. After that, it is a little more difficult to fit to a mannikin because over time the hide will take on a "memory" and will not stretch as it should.

The best way to store a hide you want to mount later is to have your taxidermist soak it up and then put it in several layers of plastic bag (squeezing the air out of each one before tying) and then lay it in the freezer.

Done this way, a hide will last indefinitely.

Good luck!

JDs