larly
ascending line, the point of suspension being a wire loop under the wing
on the side next the wall. Single birds look well in the same position.
Rabbits and squirrels are also mounted as hanging dead game either in
combination with some of the small game birds or separately. In
selecting panels for this class of work use those finished in a
contrasting color to the general tone of the specimens, a dark bird on a
lighter panel and the reverse. On all panels and shields smooth rounded,
beveled or Ogee edges are advisable. Small headings and intricate
moulding are dust catchers. Wild cats, 'coons, foxes, coyotes, even
bears and pumas gathered by night hunters and dog enthusiasts are
usually best made up as more or less elaborate rugs. As wall and couch
or chair hangings these have no trimming and often no lining except
under the head. If for any reason the skins are unfit for this the heads
can generally be used as wall mounts.

[Illustration: TIMBER WOLF RUG, FULL HEAD.]

[Illustration: DEER HEAD HALL RACK.]

Room may be found for a few of the smaller specimens mounted whole but
in the average home they are the bugbear of the housekeeper, early
exiled to the attic. A friend of mine has his collection of small game
birds, occupying the plate rail of his dining room, well out of the way
and admired by many. Well mounted heads and antlers are suitable almost
anywhere that they do not seem crowded. The famous East Room of the
White House has some handsome examples. To make them answer a useful
purpose they are made into hall racks, alone and in combination with
feet. The makers of mounts offer a number of very attractive designs in
the well-finished hard woods, some provided with plate glass mirrors.
Fish make beautiful trophies which lend themselves particularly to wall
decoration on panels or as framed medallions. How often the mounted
trophy would save the fisherman's reputation for veracity. Perhaps their
rapidly perishable nature accounts for the rarity of fish trophies. In
conclusion I would say if you are a sportsman try the preliminary or
entire preservation of some of your trophies, at least get them to the
taxidermist in as good order as you can. Remember no matter how fine a
specimen may have been, if allowed to be mutilated, become putrid or
damaged, it can never be entirely repaired.

The taxidermist must recall that exigencies of the field are responsible
for neglect of many details and a nature loving