[Nhcoll-l] Komodo Dragon Skin problems

[Anderson, Gretchen]

Dear Brad

I would be not recommend any kind of oil or lanolin used on the specimen, at least until you know more about how it was tanned  (I mean by what method and what chemicals were used).  Oils and other "skin conditioners" usually add to the challenge of preserving tanned (semi-tanned and raw) skins.  I recommend that you reduce handling  the specimen until you know more.  You also should consult a conservator who is familiar with natural history for advice. You might be able to humidify it to allow it to re-gain flexibility.   

Good luck!
Gretchen Anderson
Conservator
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
5800 Baum Blvd
Pittsburgh, PA 15202
Phone (412)665-2607
Andersong at CarnegieMNH.org
http://www.carnegiemnh.org


-----Original Message-----
From: nhcoll-l-bounces at mailman.yale.edu [mailto:nhcoll-l-bounces at mailman.yale.edu] On Behalf Of Brad Millen
Sent: Wednesday, March 13, 2013 10:23 AM
To: nhcoll-l at mailman.yale.edu
Cc: Bob Murphy; Amy Lathrop
Subject: [Nhcoll-l] Komodo Dragon Skin problems

Hi All:

In November 2011 we received from the Toronto Zoo a large male Komodo Dragon, 'Doni'. This animal had been wild caught and introduced it's genes into the captive breeding program. Eventually 'Doni's' genes were spread through multiple generations. He became a 'grandfather' in the program. 

When he came to us it was suggested that we place him on display as a mounted skeleton in our Biodiversity Gallery, where he now resides, and use the tanned skin for educational purposes. After finding a Tanner in Vernon, British Columbia that would tan the skin for us it was tanned and returned in mid-April of last year. We noticed then that the skin was somewhat dry. The skin was then rolled up and placed in a bag which sat upon a shelf in an office. 

'Doni' as a mounted skeleton was placed in the gallery last Thursday and the skin was brought out for the little function that occurred that evening. When he was unrolled it soon became evident that it was even more dry than when originally stored away and scales were flaking off of the skin. 

I and others are quite concerned about this skin and was wondering if any out there in the Natural History community might have some suggestions for us concerning remedial measures to stop the further deterioration of the skin. 

Two suggestions internally are to apply lanolin and/or mineral oil to the skin.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. If you feel that you would like to reply off of the list please do so to my email below.









Brad Millen
Natural History-Database (Ornithology)
Royal Ontario Museum
100 Queen's Park
Toronto, Ontario
Canada, M5S 2C6

email: bradm at rom.on.ca
tel: 416-586-5768



 
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