drooping wings

[James McDermott]

This would be my guess, too. I allow specimens to dry naturally over 2 weeks
or so, and don't usually have the drooping. Of course, some genera like
Urbanus, Chiomara, and relatives almost inevitably droop-- for me.

I have had a curious observation. Papered specimens which have been relaxed
(but NOT thoroughly enough) can be spread and the wings will hold initially.
After 3 weeks or so the wings, probably absorbing humidity, contract
upwards.


James McDermott



On Fri, Nov 5, 2010 at 7:36 AM, Michael Soukup <mikayak3 at comcast.net> wrote:

>  I may be off here Bruce, but I have found that drying in the oven is not
> the best.  From my experience, it tends to "super-dry" them immediately - in
> fact TOO dry, but, like any pendulum swung too far in one direction, they
> tend to absorb "extra moisture" when taken out (then droop).  I stopped
> using the oven and just allow them to dry more naturally over the course of
> a week or so (for fresh specimens)(although I do put them near vents and
> warm, slightly breezy areas).  I have had MUCH better results this
> way....and I DEFINITELY have more humidity than you have ever seen down
> there.,
> --
>
> Souky
>
> Designer, Nature Depot, Inc.
>
> http://www.TheNatureDepot.com
>
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