By Steve Morris

In the summer, itís the Dairy Queen owner who is consumed with the demands of a seasonal job. In the fall, its happens to be the local taxidermists who are working around the clock.

Tom DuChaine owner of Wild America Taxidermy Studio in North Branch has been taking in deer at a steady pace this season.

Having been in the taxidermy business for 30 years, DuChaine has learned a few tricks of the trade when it comes to dealing with peopleís trophy animals.

One of the things DuChaine stressed is hunters must have their license with them when they drop off a deer.

After people drop off their trophy deer, they should expect to wait 90 days to pick it up.

ìTwelve to 18 months seems to be the average turnaround,î he said.

Moreover, hunters who intend to bring their animal to a taxidermist must get the animal cold as soon as possible. If not, they risk disappointment when the animal falls apart or cannot be stuffed.

Furthermore, if the animal is going to be stored in a freezer, DuChaine said the animal should be wrapped in a double thick plastic bag to prevent freezer burn.

Getting a deer stuffed and mounted is a big investment. Because of events happening in the world, the cost of materials has increased, DuChaine said.

At Wild American Taxidermist a deer brought in will cost $425. DuChaine said other places are cheaper, but you get what you pay for.

To find best the taxidermist, the talkative DuChaine had advice; bring along your girlfriend or wife. Oftentimes, they have a good eye for the atheistically pleasing elements of the taxidermy, he said.

When the day is complete, DuChaine is happy to see satisfied customers.

ìThe best part of being a taxidermist is seeing the excitement on a customers face when they see the finished product.î