Ears... pull the cartilage or leave it in?

[alhefner]

Been reading several pelt handling references. Most don't seem to address the issue of what to do with a coyote or bobcat's ears other than slicing the cartilage from the skull.

One reference says to pull out the cartilage after your done skinning and another says to skin the ears off the cartilage while it's still attached to the head. The rest don't mention getting the cartilage out of the ears at all.

So, I turn to you guys! What do ya do with them coyote and bobcat ears?

 

[bonecollector777]

I leave the cartilage in them and haven't had a problem or complaint. It couldn't hurt but I don't think it's necessary and it wont bring down the value if you leave it in.

 

[grayghoste78]

I peal out the cartilage after I skin. Buyers ding you around here if it is still and put up. If selling green it don't seem to mater.

 

[alhefner]

Thanks guys. Don't know of a place to sell em green around Reno. Looked at the NAFA pelt handling guide and they want it removed too.