Right: Sharp-shinned Hawk, specimen courtesy Dr Nat Wheelwright and Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine. Drawing by Nancy Rynes, Feb 21, 2011. This specimen (a male) was obtained by the college in 1990 and was found with a broken neck. The mount overall is in pretty good shape, but the position of the head and neck to the shoulders is a bit wonky (yes, that's a technical term). I've chosen to draw the right side and underside of the head because they are relatively undamaged.

Drawing from mounts and study skins can be a good supplement to field observation and photography. Museum mounts on display are available to anyone visiting the public exhibits at a museum...just check the policy on drawing exhibits before visiting. Usually small sketchbooks, pencils, and disposable mechanical pens are allowed...watercolors and oils are typically not allowed. Check on whether photography is permitted before bringing your camera gear.

Study skins are a bit tougher to locate and if you can locate them, you may not be granted permission to use them. If you are granted permission, bring a small sketchbook, pencils, disposable mechanical pens, a ruler, cotton gloves, and calipers. Check ahead of time before bringing a camera, paints, and any liquids.