When you’ve successfully harvested a magnificent bear, preserving that memory through a professional bear head mount creates a lasting tribute to your hunting achievement. The decision to mount your bear’s head is more than just taxidermy work, it becomes a centerpiece that tells the story of your outdoor adventure for years to come.
Choosing the Right Mounting Style
Bear head mounts offer several distinct presentation options. The straight wall mount positions the head directly forward, creating an imposing presence that commands attention. This traditional style works exceptionally well in dens, hunting lodges, or any space where you want the mount to serve as a focal point.
The turned head mount adds dynamic movement to your display. By angling the head slightly left or right, the mount appears more lifelike and engaging. This style particularly suits corner installations or areas where viewers approach from multiple angles.
Habitat mounts incorporate natural elements like artificial branches, rocks, or foliage around the bear head. These displays create context and help viewers imagine the animal in its natural environment. While more expensive than simple wall mounts, habitat presentations offer unmatched realism.
Selecting the Ideal Location
Proper placement dramatically affects how visitors perceive your bear head mount. High-traffic areas like living rooms or main hallways ensure your trophy receives appropriate attention. However, avoid placing mounts directly above fireplaces, where heat and soot can damage the fur and form over time.
Natural lighting increases the mount’s appearance, but direct sunlight causes fading and deterioration. North-facing walls typically provide consistent, gentle illumination without harmful UV exposure. If your chosen location lacks adequate natural light, install LED spotlights positioned at 45-degree angles to minimize harsh shadows.
Room proportions matter significantly when positioning bear head mounts. Large rooms can accommodate oversized black bear or brown bear mounts, while smaller spaces may feel overwhelmed by massive displays. Consider the mount’s size relative to surrounding furniture and decorations.
Wall Preparation & Installation
Bear head mounts require substantial wall support due to their considerable weight. Standard drywall anchors cannot safely support these pieces. Instead, locate wall studs using a stud finder and mark their positions accurately.
Install a sturdy mounting board directly into at least two wall studs. Use 3-inch wood screws to secure the board, ensuring it can support 50-75 pounds safely. The mounting board distributes weight evenly across multiple studs, preventing damage to your wall and protecting your investment.
Professional taxidermists typically include detailed mounting instructions with completed bear head mounts. Follow these guidelines precisely, as each mount may have specific requirements based on its size and construction method.
Creating Visual Balance
Successful display design considers the mount’s relationship with surrounding elements. Large bear head mounts often benefit from complementary pieces like antler sheds, hunting photographs, or other outdoor memorabilia placed nearby.
Avoid cluttering the immediate area around your mount. The bear head should remain the primary attraction, with supporting elements enhancing rather than competing for attention. Leave adequate space above and beside the mount to prevent a cramped appearance.
Color coordination helps integrate the mount into your room’s existing decor. Consider the bear’s fur color when selecting paint colors, furniture finishes, and accent pieces. Earth tones like browns, tans, and deep greens typically complement most bear mounts naturally.
Lighting Techniques
Proper illumination turns a good bear head mount into a spectacular display. Track lighting systems offer flexibility, allowing you to adjust beam angles and intensity as needed. Position lights to highlight the mount’s eyes and facial features while minimizing shadows.
Avoid fluorescent bulbs, which can create an unnatural blue-green cast on the fur. LED bulbs provide excellent color rendering while generating minimal heat. This protects your mount from thermal damage while keeping electricity costs reasonable.
Consider installing dimmer switches to control lighting intensity throughout the day. Bright illumination showcases the mount during gatherings, while softer lighting creates ambiance during quiet evenings.
Maintenance & Protection
Regular maintenance preserves your bear head mount’s appearance for decades. Dust the fur monthly using a soft-bristled brush, always working in the direction of hair growth. Compressed air removes dust from hard-to-reach areas around the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Professional cleaning every few years removes accumulated oils and grime that regular dusting cannot address. Experienced taxidermists have specialized tools and solutions designed specifically for mounted specimens.
Monitor the mount regularly for signs of insect damage. Small holes in the fur or tiny piles of dust beneath the mount may indicate pest problems requiring immediate professional attention.
Your bear head mount shows both your hunting success and significant financial investment. Proper display techniques ensure this trophy remains a source of pride for generations. From initial placement decisions through ongoing maintenance, attention to detail determines how well your mount preserves those cherished hunting memories.
