Most bodies of humans or animals are made of wire, and then wrapped in crumpled foil for fuller areas, masking tape and then layers of papier mache. Papier mache can be made from newspaper, paper toweling, etc.

I am not sure of the wire gauge, 24? You want a flexible wire but one that holds shape well. I find wire hangers too unflexable but will work in a pinch.

Thanks for your help.