BIRDS 



37 



drawing the cotton from either side toward and over the bird, 

 leaving only the tail feathers protruding. Arrange the tail feathers 

 to insure their drjdng in place and shape the skin carefully. Large 

 birds may be wrapped in paper or thin, soft cloth. Place wrapped 



Fig. 33. — Closing the body cut by sewing. 



bird skins carefully in a tray or other flat place to dry for a few 

 days. Once dry, they can stand being moved without serious 

 damage. 



In skinning hummingbirds, after making the opening cut loosen 

 the skin on the sides of the abdomen, cut off the tail as usual 



