I was wondering what the best way would be to keep a hawk in the freezer for a period of weeks to a month or two, while I find a taxidemist that does nice bird work? It's loosely stuffed into a plastic bag now, but would it be better to wrap it more tightly to get air out, or.... what are the tricks? I'm worried about the tailfeathers as they would be the first to get damaged I would think. Possible wrap it, and then stuff it in a box to protect it from damage by steaks and ice cream.

I'm looking for inspiration too. For now I'm thinking a simple pose, perched on an old fencepost, maybe with some habitat added to the base. But since the feathers/colours of what I think is a juvenile redtailed hawk aren't too striking, maybe I'd like to add a bit more drama. Do any of the resident taxidermists here have some examples on their websites?

Thanks.

Frans

Thank you for pointing that out, and it is not legal here either. That was not the question though.

Frans

I generally take birds and stuff them head first into a leg from an old pair of my wife's pantyhose. Then wrap it in a couple layers of newspaper and put in a sealed plastic bag.

That said, before you cart it to a taxidermist and risk a citation, birds of prey (raptors) are fully protected in Alberta, no?

Sorry, I deleted my post and was gonna PM you, but was too slow.
Guess you must have the permit. I have not a clue as to the answer to your question, so will exit.

Thanks for the suggestions and the words of caution. I shouldn't have such long toes.
A permit is required, yes, absolutely.

I'm not a big fan of panty hose (either on or off the lady and certainly not on a bird) but I can't argue with Tony's logic and the end item. I always suggest that for long term storage, several steps should be used to prevent the possibility of freezer burn (freeze drying). Lay the bird on a newspaper and smooth the feathers down. Insure that the paper is longer than the bird. Roll it up carefully, fold the ends over gently and tape. This provides a "cone" to protect that tail. Next, put it into a plastic sleeve much like newspapers come in. Push all the air out and tie the end in a knot. Then put it in a heavy paper bag (grocery bag) rolled up to keep excess air out, and then tape it and freeze it. I have had my own birds in the freezer for 6 years that mounted up well. There was some drying on the legs but no freeze drying on the facial feathers and skin.

Well, the biologists agree (after some debate), it's an immature redtailed hawk. The good folks at Fish and Wildlife are aware of my having it now, they just weren't in to do my permit. I'll drop it off later this week, they'll inspect it and give me the permit.

With the storage question answered, all I have to worry about now is finding a taxidermist and a pose. Thanks for the help.

Frans