John,

It is possible to make sure that none of the objects start out with any kind
of infestation (freezing may be your best bet, but consult a professional
conservator for specifics), but the only kinds of treatment that prevent
insects from settling in/on them once they are out in the open are pretty
toxic to people and objects too.

Are these objects going to be in the museum or outside?   Do you have an
on-going infestation problem in the building?  If the objects are going to
be inside in a space that doesn't usually have any kind of infestation, I
would recommend weekly examination to make sure nothing starts.

We have feathers, fur and corn out in the open and haven't had any insect
problems (although we have had an occasional rodent).  We do full building
inspections (with a reputable pest control specialist) on a bi-monthly basis
(used to be monthly but we didn't have any problems for 4 years) and have
glueboards throughout the museum in the potential pest "traffic" areas.

Since this is a question specifically about Native American objects you
should also be aware that certain objects and materials (feathers may fall
into this category) may be culturally compromised by conventional treatments
(there was a terrific session at AAM about this several years ago).
Additionally some "pests" need to be treated with respect as well.   Ants,
for example, are considered to be important by the Navajo (they keep the
veins and arteries open) so we have chosen to co-exist (for the most part)
with the ant colony that lives in one of our exterior walls rather than try
to exterminate them.

janice
(who had a bat in her office last week and is hoping there aren't more
nesting in the eaves)

Janice Klein
Director, Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
[log in to unmask]
www.mitchellmuseum.org

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of John Martinson
Sent: Thursday, December 29, 2005 8:56 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Displaying Native American items


We are putting together an exhibit, using reproduction/cast items.
However, some of
the items as the arrow/dart shafts have feathers.  Plus, we may include
corn/squash
seeds, tule fiber, and leather.   These things may attrack bugs and
other creepy-crawly things.

I was wondering if I should just leave them out, or is there a way to
debug them so they
would not make a meal or home for the critters.  Thanks in advance.

John
Boise

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