Expressions of Wildlife Taxidermy
Why Does It Cost So Much?
Let’s talk about Taxidermy prices for a minute. As an avid hunter myself, I can relate to the fact that hunting and fishing are expensive and time consuming hobbies. A lot of money is investing in licenses, trips, guns, bows, leases, trucks, 4 wheelers, clothing, tree-stands…it is an endless sea of consumer merchandise targeting hunting enthusiasts. The goal of all of that time and expense is to enjoy being one with nature, right?
Taxidermy is often misunderstood, yet, it has long been the principle storyteller of our natural history. In Zoological and Natural History museums throughout the world from Copenhagen and London to the Smithsonian National Museum in Washington, DC, taxidermists are among the most valued and respected of tradesmen in the curators staff. Over the course of the last few centuries, taxidermy has evolved considerably from its crude beginnings where preserved skins were literally “stuffed” with cotton, straw or sawdust to achieve nothing more than a vague resemblance to their original form. Pioneers in the early 20th century such as Carl Akeley and Leon Pray established new standards in Taxidermy...
Taxidermy Quality
Field Care
The quality of the finished mount is usually a direct reflection of the care the animal receives when collected. The lower the quality of the skin, the lower the quality of the end product. There are some steps that you, the sportsman, can take that will account for about 50% of the quality of the finished mount. First, consider selecting a reputable taxidermist that is a member of a State or National Taxidermists trade organization. These associations are a critical link...
How I Met My Hobby
I have always had fascination with taxidermy. It is no doubt a product of my deep love of the outdoors, of hunting and fishing as boy as far back as I can remember. I think the first time I ever really noticed was at my Aunt and Uncles house in Odessa Florida...