Taxidermy and birds??

chris4570 · Post by **chris4570** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 7:52 pm

Was out trying to get some pics of the local deer this afternoon (will post later), when I stumbled upon a dead red-tailed hawk. Probably died overnight or earlier this morning. Still in very good shape. Although quite emaciated. They have some wicked looking talons!!!

I always wanted a hawk, a live one would be preferred, but I think I would like to get this one mounted.

What is the best way to preserve a bird? Freeze or refridgerate?

Any Ontarians ever get one mounted? And if so what was the process as far as notifying the MNR? Just a phone call to say I found this bird and would like to keep it?

Grizzly Adam · Post by **Grizzly Adam** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 9:57 pm

Don't know what the laws are up there, but if I was in your shoes, I'd call the local wildlife enforcement officer and ask! He'll know.

One thing's for sure: most jurisdictions have strict laws concerning possession of raptors. I'd be careful to know I was OK.

ComfyBear · Post by **ComfyBear** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 10:20 pm

Grizzly Adam wrote:Don't know what the laws are up there, but if I was in your shoes, I'd call the local wildlife enforcement officer and ask! He'll know.

One thing's for sure: most jurisdictions have strict laws concerning possession of raptors. I'd be careful to know I was OK.

Adam is right, you must report your find to the MNR, afterwhich you'll be most likely able to keep and have it mounted.

canadiancaller · Post by **canadiancaller** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 10:40 pm

Awesome find!!Yes....FOR SURE CONTACT THE MNR!! Great avian taxidermist is Ken Morrison in Huntsville Ontario....I'll root out a number if u wish!!

canadiancaller · Post by **canadiancaller** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 10:42 pm

Oh...by the way...wrap the raptor up in newspaper and freeze...however...contact a taxidermist as soon as possible and arrange the drop off...lol...After u talked to the MNR dudes!!!

GREY OWL · Post by **GREY OWL** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 10:55 pm

Chris, don't refridgerate the hawk, freeze in your deep freeze. your local taxi. would'nt likely have time for months anyway, that's what he'll do.

When I found my Grey Owl ( Hence my forum name ), a few years ago, I quckly phoned the Game Wardens, to put me on record. I then had to get the bird X-rayed at Vet. Med. here on campus. That was to prove I didn't shoot it, ( $ 60.00 ) then i purchased a permit for possession, ( $ 11.00 ), only then would the Taxidermist mount my Grey Owl, ( $ 250.00 ).

Grey Owl

chris4570 · Post by **chris4570** » Wed Mar 19, 2008 6:07 pm

All that was needed to keep the hawk for mounting was a trip to the Guelph District MNR Office, with the bird for a quick inspection, and my statement as to how and where I found the bird. No fees. No x-rays. Just a little time.

Grey Owl do you have a pic of your mount? I've been trying to decide how I want the hawk displayed. Flying? Sitting? Grabbing a rabbit? Puffed out? In a glass display?