Dear Museum-lers

I'm consulting for a small (almost volunter run) museum where until very
recently there were two embalm mules (don't know were they came from or who
did the embalming). They were there for at least 8 years without having been
subjected to any kind of conservation treatment. They were on display in an
environment that was not (and is not) environmentaly controlled and although
I am not a specialist in natural history museums I feared for the safety
(infestation) of the other materials (wood carriages) which make for the
museum's main collection and mission. I had them removed on the basis of the
safety of the other pieces as well as on the basis of the safety (heatl) of
our visitors (who insisted in touching the embalmed animals). Now I have to
constantly listen to complains that the visitors miss the animals and that
the museum lsot its charm.
Could any of you (working in natural history museums) provide me with more
technical information on how to display emebalm animals. I've acted on the
basis of the code of conduct of museum professionals as this particular
museum has show no capacity and know how to deal with embalm animals.

Thanks

C. Pimentel,
Museum consultant

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