=Skinning.= In skinning serpents there is some nicety required, to cut
them so as not to disfigure the scales; the opening should be made in
the side, commencing at the termination of the scales; and they should
on no account be divided, as upon their number the species is mostly
determined.
It is a very frequent practice to send home serpents without the head,
which renders them quite unfit for any scientific purpose. This proceeds
from the fear of receiving poison from the fangs. But there is not the
slightest danger of being affected, as these can easily be cut out by
means of pincers. The head should be cleaned and the brain removed, in
the same manner as recommended for birds and quadrupeds, the skull
anointed and then returned into the skin.
When the skin is removed, it may be rolled up and packed in small space.
The simplest way to preserve small species is to put them in spirits,
which must not be too strong, as it will destroy the colors.
Mr. Burchell, in his four years’ journey through Africa, glued the skins
of the smaller serpents perfectly flat on paper, which preserved the
size of the animal, and the skin retained all the beauty of life.
=Stuffing.= The skin, if not recent, must be first softened in the
manner recommended for birds. A piece of wire is taken, the length of
the animal, which must be wrapped round with tow till it is of a proper
thickness, and above the whole a spiral band of sliver should be
carefully wrapped. It is then placed inside of the skin, and sewed up.
The eyes are placed in, as directed for quadrupeds and birds. When dry,
give the serpent a coat of varnish, and then twist it into any attitude
wished. A favorite and striking one is to have it wound round some
animal, and in the act of killing it.