How long are hides good for?

[ErikPrice1@msn.com]

 Just wondering if anybody knows how long a mule deer hide is good for after off the deer? Some friends got two four days ago and they just put the hides in a pile what a waste. The warmest its been here in oregon in the last four days is about 75 for a short time during the day.  It is freezing during the night.  I'm going to try egg tanning and was wondering if these are still good to practice on. Any info would be helpful. Thanks guys.

[DandJofAZ]

Go for it...Got an elk hide last Nov. and it was just tossed over the side of my wood trailer where it stayed all thought a very snowy winter...in spring when I worked it, all was ok except where 3/4 inch of meat was let on from quick in the dark skinning.  If yours are only days old and weather cool should be ok. 
Certainly worth a try..

[voyageur1688]

 They may be spoiled but they may still be good. Smell them and see if they smell bad or if they dont. If they dont smell bad they can be used without problems. I have had great luck with the egg tanning and love it.
Voy