APPENDIX. 87 



In large birds, like Eagles, I now skin over the met- 

 acarpus (beyond the carpal joint). This may readily 

 be accomplished with practice. Indeed, every bone in 

 the wing, including the phalanges, may be removed 

 from the inside. I have, also, frequently performed 

 the somewhat difficult feat of removing every bone in 

 the body, including those of the bill and claws, leav- 

 ing only the horny .covering ; thus securing a perfect 

 skeleton, as well as a mounted specimen. 



I do not now tie the bones, as mentioned on page 23, 

 but simply place the wings in position. 



When placing the cotton in the neck, as described 

 on page 24, be sure that the end of the roll enters 

 the cavity of the skull ; this will make the neck more 

 solid. 



I now sew through a pinch of skin from the out- 

 side, when fastening the wings in position, by the sides 

 and over the quill, not through it. Thus the thread 

 is tied outside. 



In filling small birds, I now first sew the wings, and 

 then place neck and body in together. This saves time, 

 and makes a better skin, it being stronger. 



Too much care cannot be exercised in placing the 

 skin in the form. To make a perfect specimen, every 

 feather should be carefully put in place, and smoothly 

 arranged. For drying, place the skin in a closet, 01 

 some place where it will not be disturbed by the slight 

 est breath of wind. I now recommend writing date, 

 locality, and sex, on labels attached to the skin ; also, 

 in case of rare birds, color of feet, bill, eyes, etc. 



In preparing the wings of large birds, like Hawks, 

 first fill the neck and body, using grass or excelsior for 

 the latter. Then, after placing the wing in position 

 without drawing the forearm within the skin, sew at 



