Abstract: Apparatus for machine scalping and possibly total pelting of a worked up carcass of an animal such as a sheep which uses a composite roller capable of being machine rotated in at least one rotational direction, the roller having a first portion and a second portion movable with respect to each other so as to clamp before the rolling off of the scalp and to release upon reversal after previous operation the grip on the scalp. The apparatus is actuable so as to cause the phased movements required for first gripping the pelt for scalping and then the release of any pelt removed by the composite roller.