Do I need to remove the animal's ears when caping?

Preparing the Cape

When caping an animal, it’s essential to cut the skin carefully around the ears, leaving as much cartilage and underlying tissue intact as possible. This will help the ears stay in place and maintain their natural shape. A good rule of thumb is to cut about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) above the base of the ears, then carefully work the skin away from the skull, taking care not to damage any of the surrounding tissue.

Shoulder Mount Considerations

For a shoulder mount, the ears play a crucial role in defining the animal’s head and providing balance to the overall composition. By leaving them intact, you can create a more lifelike and visually appealing mount. When preparing the cape, be sure to leave enough skin around the ears to allow for proper attachment to the shoulder mount. A good starting point is to use about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of skin around the ears, which should provide enough surface area for secure attachment.

Tips for Working with Ears

When working with the ears, it’s essential to be gentle and precise to avoid damaging the delicate cartilage and surrounding tissue. Use a #7 or #8 skinning knife to carefully cut around the ears, and take your time to ensure a clean, even cut. If you’re having trouble getting the skin to release from the skull, try gently prying it away with a blunt instrument, such as a bone scraper or a blunt edge of a knife.