[Nhcoll-l] taxidermy and mold/mildew

[Heather.Thorwald at dmns.org]

I am posting this on behalf of a colleague from the registrars' listserv.  Please reply to her directly at the address below.  -- Heather

From:  Jessica Cruz, University of Northern Iowa

I am in the process of cataloging and dismantling the ornithology exhibit my museum has had on display for the past 25 years. Naturally, this has yielded some unfortunate surprises. I have found a number of birds that show signs of mold and mildew and wanted to know what people might recommend. Overall, these are not unique specimens so I doubt we will want to invest in conserving them. My initial reaction is to deaccess and dispose of them, but I wonder if there might be some way to neutralize it.

I should also mention that these are birds from the late 1800's/early 1900's, and they are being moved to a new display where they will probably sit for another 20-30 years.

We are assuming these have been treated with arsenic and are taking all proper precautions. I am also working with the University's hazardous materials manager to make sure the birds we have to depose of are taken care of properly.

Thanks!
Jess
Exhibit Preparator
University Museums, University of Northern Iowa
jessica.cruz at uni.edu<mailto:jessica.cruz at uni.edu>
319-273-2495



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