B.O.H. Beetles will clean up all skulls from bobcat to moose and everything in between. Dermestid beetles clean skulls the best as the get into every nook and cranny without damaging any of the delicate bones. There is no smell because there is no tissue left behind. Dermestid beetles skull cleaning and euro mount pricing is below.
Prices for skulls
Bobcat/coyote $130
Bear/wolf/cougar $160
Deer/Goat $200
Elk $300
Moose $350
Heads must be skinned and have eyes removed or there will be additional cost.
Interested in buying beetles??? Use the “Contact Us” Page for beetles
Keeping Dermestid Beetles
Dermestid beetles, also known as carpet beetles or skin beetles, are a popular choice for people who want to clean skulls and bones for display or study. These beetles are excellent at removing flesh and tissue from bones, leaving them clean and white. If you’re interested in keeping dermestid beetles, here are some tips to help you get started.
- Choose the right container
The first step in keeping dermestid beetles is to choose the right container for them. You’ll need a container that’s large enough to hold your beetles, but not so large that they have trouble finding food. A plastic storage bin with a lid works well, as it provides plenty of space and can be easily cleaned. A broken deep freezer makes a perfect house that seals up, they cant climb the walls and is large enough to fit deer skulls with antlers.
- Add bedding material
Next, you’ll need to add some bedding material to the container. Dermestid beetles like to burrow, so a mixture of wood shavings and vermiculite works well. You can also add some cardboard egg crates or paper towel rolls for the beetles to climb on.
- Add food
Dermestid beetles need a source of protein to survive, and they prefer raw meat. You can give them any kind of raw meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid giving them meat with seasoning or marinades, as this can be harmful to the beetles. When adding skulls it is best to remove the eyes and brain as these take a long time to consume and the brains will create a very bad smell.
- Provide moisture
Dermestid beetles need a little bit of moisture to stay healthy, but too much moisture can be harmful. You can provide moisture by misting the bedding material with water, or by placing a damp sponge in the container. Make sure to check the moisture level regularly to ensure it’s not too wet or too dry.
5. Maintaining the optimal temperature and humidity level is crucial for the health and productivity of your dermestid beetle colony. Dermestid beetles prefer a warm and dry environment, with a temperature range of 70-85°F (21-29°C) and a humidity level between 30-50%.
It’s essential to monitor the temperature and humidity regularly, as extreme variations in either can cause stress and potentially kill the beetles. A digital thermometer and hygrometer can be useful tools to measure and track the conditions inside the container.
If the humidity is too high, you can increase ventilation or add a dehumidifier to the room where the container is kept. Conversely, if the humidity is too low, you can add a humidifier or a damp sponge to the container.
Remember to keep the container away from direct sunlight or any extreme heat sources, such as heating vents or lamps, which can raise the temperature and humidity levels above optimal levels. The easiest system is to install a heat bulb and small fan up high on your container attached to temp and humidity switches. All of which can be found on amazon.
By maintaining the right temperature and humidity, you can ensure the health and productivity of your dermestid beetle colony, and achieve optimal results in cleaning and preserving bones.