Skinning a coyote is a task that requires patience and precision. The process can be broken down into several steps, and it is important to follow each step carefully to ensure that the hide is not damaged. Before beginning, it is important to gather the necessary tools, including a sharp knife, a skinning tool, and a fleshing knife. Once the tools are assembled, the coyote can be placed on its back and the skinning process can begin.
The first step is to make an incision along the belly of the coyote. The incision should be made carefully, avoiding any major blood vessels or organs. Once the incision is made, the skin can be peeled away from the body, starting from the belly and working towards the head and tail. As the skin is peeled away, it is important to use the skinning tool to help separate the skin from the flesh. Once the skin is completely removed, it is important to flesh it using the fleshing knife. This process involves removing any remaining flesh or fat from the hide, leaving only the tanned hide.
Once the hide is fleshed, it can be stretched and dried. The drying process can take several days, and it is important to keep the hide in a cool, dry place during this time. Once the hide is dry it can be stored for later use. The hide from a coyote can be used to make a variety of items, including clothing, blankets, and other crafts. With patience and precision, you can successfully skin a coyote and use its hide to create a variety of useful and beautiful items.
Preparing the Coyote for Skinning
Before you start skinning a coyote, it’s essential to prepare it properly to ensure a successful and hygienic process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a coyote for skinning:
1. Restraining and Humanely Euthanizing the Coyote
First and foremost, ensure that the coyote is restrained humanely and euthanized ethically. This is crucial for both safety and ethical considerations. Utilize proper restraint methods and employ humane euthanasia techniques to minimize distress and ensure a respectful end for the animal before proceeding with the skinning process.
2. Cooling the Carcass
Once the coyote has been euthanized, it’s vital to cool the carcass adequately to facilitate skinning. This process helps reduce the risk of spoilage and makes the skin easier to remove. Hang the carcass by its hind legs or place it in a freezer for several hours to achieve the desired cooling effect.
3. Gathering Necessary Tools
Before you begin skinning, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. This includes a sharp knife, skinning pliers, fleshing beam or board, fleshing knife, and salt or borax for preserving the skin. Ensure that the tools are clean and properly disinfected to prevent contamination.
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp knife | Cutting and separating the skin from the flesh |
| Skinning pliers | Gripping and pulling the skin away from the body |
| Fleshing beam or board | Stretching and scraping the skin to remove excess flesh |
| Fleshing knife | Removing remaining flesh and fat from the skin |
| Salt or borax | Preserving and drying the skin |
Removing the Pelt
Once the coyote has been skinned, the pelt can be removed. Start by making an incision along the belly, from the base of the tail to the throat. Carefully separate the pelt from the underlying flesh and bone, using a sharp knife. As you work, be careful not to cut through the pelt.
Once the pelt has been separated from the flesh, it can be removed. Start by rolling up the pelt from the tail towards the head. As you roll, be careful not to pull or stretch the pelt. Once the pelt has been rolled up, it can be tied with a piece of string or twine.
Additional Tips for Removing the Pelt
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a sharp knife. | A sharp knife will make it easier to separate the pelt from the flesh and bone. |
| Be careful not to cut through the pelt. | If you cut through the pelt, it will damage the fur and reduce its value. |
| Roll the pelt up from the tail towards the head. | This will help to prevent the pelt from stretching or tearing. |
| Tie the pelt with a piece of string or twine. | This will keep the pelt rolled up and prevent it from unrolling. |
Fleshing the Hide
Once the animal has been skinned and the fat has been removed, the next step is to flesh the hide. This involves removing all of the remaining meat and tissue from the skin. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a fleshing knife.
Step 1: Start by cutting along the inside of the leg, being careful not to cut into the skin.
Step 2: Once you have cut around the leg, start to scrape away the meat and tissue.
Step 3: Use short, even strokes and be careful not to cut the skin.
Step 4: Once you have fleshed the leg, move on to the body.Step 5: Repeat the same process of cutting and scraping until all of the meat and tissue has been removed.
Step 6: Once the hide has been fleshed, it is ready to be tanned.
**Additional Tips:**
- Fleshing a hide can be a messy process, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing.
- Use a sharp fleshing knife to make the job easier.
- If you are not comfortable using a knife, you can also use a fleshing beam.
- Be careful not to cut the skin when fleshing the hide.
Tanning the Leather
1. Preparation
Ensure that the coyote skin is thoroughly cleaned and degreased. If necessary, soak the skin in a degreasing solution for several hours or overnight.
2. Tanning Solution Preparation
Prepare a tanning solution by mixing 1 gallon of water with 1 pound of dry alum powder (aluminum sulfate). Mix the solution until the powder is completely dissolved.
Aluminum Sulfate (Alum) Tanning Solution
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 1 gallon |
| Aluminum Sulfate (Alum) Powder | 1 pound |
3. Soaking the Skin
Submerge the cleaned skin in the tanning solution and soak for 24 to 48 hours. Stir the skin occasionally to ensure even penetration of the tanning solution.
4. Stretching and Drying
After soaking, remove the skin from the solution and stretch it out on a flat surface with the flesh side up. Use wooden stakes or pins to secure the skin. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases and ensure that the skin is taut but not overly stretched. Allow the skin to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Leave the skin stretched for 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the thickness of the skin.
- Check the skin regularly to ensure it is drying evenly and does not become overly dry or brittle.
- If the skin becomes stiff or difficult to manipulate, rewet it with water and stretch it again.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve removed the pelt from the carcass, there are a few finishing touches you’ll need to complete:
5. Fleshing and Tanning
Fleshing involves removing any remaining meat and fat from the pelt. You can use a fleshing tool specifically designed for this task, or a sharp knife. Hold the pelt firmly and scrape away any remaining tissue, taking care not to cut into the hide. Once fleshed, the pelt must be tanned to preserve it. There are various tanning methods, but a common option is to soak the pelt in a salt solution for several days, then stretch it out on a frame to dry. The salt helps draw out moisture and prevent the pelt from rotting.
After the pelt is dry, you can soften it by stretching it over a form and working it with your hands. You can also use a leather conditioner to keep the pelt supple and prevent it from becoming brittle.
6. Cleaning the Pelt
Before storing the pelt, it’s essential to clean it thoroughly. Use a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the pelt well and allow it to air dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place.
7. Storing the Pelt
Store the dried pelt in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can damage the hide.
Tools and Materials
Skinner
A skinner is a sharp, curved knife used specifically for skinning animals. It has a thin, flexible blade that allows for precise cuts and easy maneuvering around curves.
Fleshing Knife
A fleshing knife is a blunt knife used to remove excess meat and fat from the skin. It has a wider blade than a skinner and is typically made of a flexible material to conform to the contours of the animal.
Scissors
Sharp scissors are used to cut through connective tissue, tendons, and other tough areas.
Gloves
Gloves protect your hands from cuts and punctures while handling the animal and its skin.
Table or Board
A sturdy table or board provides a stable surface for skinning the coyote.
Peg or Hook
A peg or hook is used to hold the skin in place while you work.
Gambrel
A gambrel is a metal bar with hooks at both ends. It is used to suspend the coyote by its rear legs, making it easier to skin.
Stretchers or Boards
Stretchers or boards are used to dry and shape the skin after it has been removed.
Salt
Salt is used to preserve the skin and prevent spoilage.
Preservative
A preservative, such as borax or alum, can be used to further preserve the skin and prevent insects or microorganisms from damaging it.
Safety Precautions
When skinning a coyote, it’s important to take proper safety precautions:
1. Wear Gloves
To protect your hands from sharp teeth and claws, wear thick, puncture-resistant gloves.
2. Disarm the Coyote’s Teeth
Before starting, remove the coyote’s teeth or cover its mouth with a muzzle to prevent bites.
3. Use Sharp Tools
Keep your knives and scissors razor-sharp to make clean, precise cuts and minimize tearing the hide.
4. Sterilize Your Tools
To prevent infection, sterilize your tools with rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution before and after use.
5. Wear Protective Clothing
Long sleeves, pants, and waterproof boots will protect you from fur, blood, and other fluids.
6. Work in a Clean Environment
Choose a well-ventilated area to prevent the spread of bacteria and ensure proper hygiene.
7. Inspect the Coyote for Diseases
Before skinning, carefully examine the coyote for any signs of disease or parasites. If you find any, consult a veterinarian or wildlife specialist immediately. Here’s a more detailed table of common diseases and parasites to look out for:
| Disease/Parasite | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Mange | Itching, hair loss, skin lesions |
| Rabies | Aggression, disorientation |
| Fleas/Ticks | Visible parasites on skin or in fur |
Troubleshooting Common Skinning Issues
Misaligned Incision
If the incision is not made correctly, the skin can tear, which will reduce its value. To avoid this, follow the correct method of cutting.
Skin Tearing
When removing the skin, it is important to be careful not to tear it. If this happens, use a sewing needle and thread to stitch it back together.
Flesh Adhering to the Skin
This usually occurs when the animal is not properly bled out. To prevent this, always bleed out the animal before skinning.
Holes in the Skin
If the skin is punctured, it can be patched with a piece of leather or canvas. To avoid this, be careful when removing the skin.
Uneven Thickness
Skinned from different parts of the animal can vary in thickness. To ensure an even thickness, use a flesher to remove excess fat and muscle.
Dry Skin
Skin that is too dry will crack and become brittle. To prevent this, keep the skin moist by applying oil or grease.
Fleshing the Skin
Once the skin has been removed, it is important to flesh it properly. This involves removing all the fat and muscle tissue from the hide. To do this, use a sharp knife to carefully scrape away the flesh.
Avoid Damaging the Hide
When fleshing the skin, it is important to avoid damaging the hide. Use a sharp knife and be careful not to cut into the skin.
Finishing Touches
Once the skin has been fleshed, it is ready to be finished. This involves removing any remaining hair or fat and smoothing out the edges. To do this, use a fine-toothed comb and a sharp knife.
|
Problem |
Solution |
|---|---|
|
Misaligned incision |
Follow the correct method of cutting. |
|
Skin tearing |
Use a sewing needle and thread to stitch it back together. |
|
Flesh adhering to the skin |
Always bleed out the animal before skinning. |
|
Holes in the skin |
Be careful when removing the skin. |
|
Uneven thickness |
Use a flesher to remove excess fat and muscle. |
|
Dry skin |
Apply oil or grease to the skin. |
Alternative Skinning Methods
Gut the Coyote
Flip the coyote onto its back and make an incision along its belly from its anus to its breastbone. Carefully remove the internal organs. Avoid cutting into the intestines or bladder.
Remove the Paws
Skin around the paws, just above the toes. Cut the tendons that connect the toes to the legs.
Skin the Legs
Turn the coyote onto its side and make an incision along the inside of each leg from the paw to the shoulder or hip. Carefully peel back the skin from the leg, avoiding cutting into the meat.
Skin the Back
Flip the coyote onto its belly and make an incision along the spine from the head to the tail. Carefully peel back the skin from the back, avoiding cutting into the meat.
Skin the Head
Remove the ears by cutting around their bases. Cut around the nose and mouth and carefully peel back the skin from the head. Remove the eyes by cutting around them and pulling them out.
Finish the Skinning
Once the skin is completely removed, flesh off any remaining meat or fat. Stretch the skin onto a frame or board to dry.
Fleshing the Skin
Fleshing removes any remaining meat or fat from the skin. Use a sharp knife or flesher to scrape away the tissue.
Tanning the Skin
Tanning preserves the skin and makes it soft and pliable. There are various tanning methods, such as using brain tanning, salt tanning, or commercial tanning solutions.
Dressing the Fur
Dressing the fur involves cleaning and brushing it to remove dirt, debris, and loose hairs. Use a soft brush or comb to groom the fur and restore its natural luster.
Coyote Skin Care and Maintenance
Storing Fresh Hides
Fresh coyote hides should be salted and stored in a cool, dry place. Apply a layer of salt to the flesh side of the hide and fold it in half, flesh to flesh. Place the salted hide in a plastic bag and store it in a refrigerator or freezer.
Fleshing and Tanning
Fleshing removes the meat and fat from the hide, while tanning preserves the hide and makes it pliable. Fleshing can be done with a sharp knife or a fleshing beam. Tanning methods include commercial tanning kits, brain tanning, and alum tanning.
Hair Removal
Coyote hides can be furred or defurred. Furred hides retain their fur, while defurred hides are shaved or plucked. Hair removal can be done using a sharp knife, a razor blade, or a depilatory cream.
Stretch and Dry
Stretched hides dry evenly and prevent shrinkage. Use a stretcher frame to stretch the hide and secure it with tacks or clamps. Dry the hide in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Finishing
Once the hide is dry, it can be finished to protect it from damage and enhance its appearance. This may include applying a sealant or wax, or mounting the hide on a backing material.
Storage
Properly stored coyote hides can last for many years. Store hides in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use a mothball-infused cedar chest for long-term storage.
Insect Control
Insects can damage coyote hides. Use mothballs or insect repellent sprays to deter insects. If insects are detected, freeze the hide for at least 24 hours to kill them.
Repairs
Minor tears or punctures in coyote hides can be repaired using a leather repair kit or a needle and thread. More extensive damage may require professional repair.
Cleaning
Coyote hides can be cleaned using a damp cloth or a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, which can damage the hide.
Display
Coyote hides can be displayed in various ways, such as wall mounts, rugs, and throws. Use professional mounting techniques to preserve the hide’s appearance and prevent damage.
