Introduction
When you spend enough time in the woods, you’ll eventually stumble across a deer skull. Whether it’s a clean, sun-bleached trophy left behind by nature or a skull preserved from a successful hunt, each one tells a story. For me, deer skulls aren’t always about flashy mounts or expensive taxidermy; they’re reminders of time spent in the wild, moments of patience, and stories worth sharing. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences with deer skulls—how I’ve found them, how I’ve preserved them, and a few lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Finding Deer Skulls in the Wild
Most of the deer skull I’ve found have been part of scattered carcasses, clearly left behind after being picked over by scavengers. Bones usually lie in random directions, with ribs here, femurs there, and the skull often a little ways off, still intact but weathered by time.
If the bones are neatly placed together, however, it’s usually a sign that a hunter had been there. Typically, the skull will be missing entirely, removed for a trophy mount. It’s fascinating how the condition of a deer skull can tell a story about its end—whether it fell to a predator, succumbed to nature, or was harvested by a skilled hunter.
Cleaning and Preserving Deer Skulls
I’ll be honest—I don’t typically spend big money on taxidermy for deer skulls. Most of the deer I’ve harvested weren’t what I’d consider “trophy animals.” They were meaningful for the hunt, the experience, and the meat they provided. That being said, I’ve often cut the antlers right from the skull and kept them as simple reminders of the hunt.
One day, though, I might go all out for a European mount, especially if I ever get the chance to hunt one of those massive red stags in New Zealand. Now that’s a trophy worth showcasing.
For those considering a European mount, it’s worth noting that there are plenty of DIY kits available, such as those from Mountain Mike’s Reproductions. They offer easy-to-use skull mounting kits that save time and money while delivering professional results.
Related Read: The Ultimate Guide to Deer Hunting in 2024: Tips, Gear, and Techniques
Preserving Velvet Antlers: A Unique Experience
One thing not many people know is how to preserve antlers when they’re still in velvet—that soft, outer layer covering the horns during the early growth stage. In Arizona, an August hunt is usually the best time to spot deer still in velvet.
If you’re lucky enough to harvest one in this stage, preserving the velvet takes a bit of care. The best tip I can offer is to cut the antlers from the skull or keep the skull intact if you’re planning a European mount. Afterward, immerse the antlers in salt for several weeks. I kept mine salted for about thirty days—probably longer than necessary, but it worked.
When done correctly, the velvet retains its natural look and feel, creating a unique display piece. For those wanting more professional results, companies like Knobloch’s Taxidermy Supplies offer velvet antler preservation sprays and kits.
Why Deer Skulls Are More Than Just Bone
For me, deer skulls aren’t just about trophies—they’re about stories. Whether it’s a clean-cut antler hanging in my garage or a weathered skull found on a hike, they’re reminders of patience, effort, and time spent in wild places.
That’s the beauty of them—they hold significance even without extravagant mounting or display. For newer hunters, my advice is simple: whether you’re keeping the skull intact, creating a European mount, or preserving velvet antlers, take your time. These moments aren’t just about the final product—they’re about respecting the animal and the hunt.
Related Read: Best Time of Day for Deer Hunting: Morning vs. Evening
Conclusion
The deer skull is more than just a piece of bone—it’s a physical reminder of the hunt, the environment, and the animal itself. Whether you find one deep in the woods, preserve velvet antlers from a fresh harvest, or mount it as a centerpiece in your home, every skull tells a story.
Take your time to clean, preserve, and honor it properly. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or someone who stumbled across a skull on a hike, there’s always something fascinating about holding a piece of nature in your hands.
