Does anyone have advice on removing velvet from the antlers of a red stag? Shot 2 weeks ago in young broadleaves, this is a nice 10 point head.
Boiled skull, but 2weeks on flies don't seem interested in removing velvet. Any ideas/comment appreciated.

You can try with hot water, like you boiled the skull, but for a shorter period of time. The skin (velvet) will get loose. A high pressure cleaner should help as well, this I have not tried. Afterwards, you can colour the antlers with furniture dye. Don�t overdo it, apply very thin layers several times.

Not much of a DIY man myself, so my approach would be to bring the antlers to a taxidermist. He would also know how to properly colour the antlers - they won't look nice after the velvet has been removed. All this, naturally assuming that the antlers are nice enough for you to want to spend a few quids making them suitable for display.

Alternatively, try posting your question on the taxidermy forum...
- mike

[ 08-14-2003, 12:28: Message edited by: mho ]

Damn shame to shoot them in velvet but if he was damaging your hardwoods then you had no choice really...

Only ever done this with a roebuck but you could try a pressure washer.