MOUNTING BIRDS WITH CLOSED WINGS. 



105 



passing a thread through the nostrils and base of the 

 under mandible, and tie in position. 



To wire the tail is one of the most delicate tasks for the 

 tyro, and should be done as follows : Pass a long, 

 smoothly-pointed piece of small wire through each tail 

 feather at the flat part of the quill near the body, and 

 spread the tail in accordance with the position of the 

 bird. A large wire should be run through the fleshy part 

 of the tail, from the under side, into the body, so that 

 the tail be made to rest in any position. 



Secure the wings by sticking sharp pieces of wire 

 through them into the shoulders. Stick small, pointed 

 wires or pins in different parts of 

 the body, and wind the plumage 

 lightly down in position with fine 

 thread, and leave until dry. 



The plumage may be made to 

 lay smoother by touching the 

 rough places with a feather wet 

 in turpentine. When a bird is 

 first taken, note the color of eyes, 

 cere, gular sack, and legs, so that 

 it can be painted naturally when 

 mounted. 



A natural crook of a tree makes 

 an ornamental stand. To facili- 

 tate handling, small birds are 

 usually mounted on a T stand, and removed when needed 

 for cases. Large birds, as far as practicable, are placed 

 on the stands they are to remain on, when first mounted. 



AY hen a bird is thoroughly dried, clip off the wrap- 

 pings of thread, cut off projecting wires, and remove 

 pins. Paint necessary parts, and varnish beak, legs, and 

 talons, to preserve from decay and protect from the at- 

 tacks of insects. 



BODT AND NECK, SHOWING 

 POSITION OF WIRES. 



