How do you mount animals?
Taxidermy Explained: What It Is and How Animals Are Mounted
Taxidermy, also known as mounting animals, is an ancient art. The word taxidermy literally means “moving the skin.” It is a field in which an animal's skin is prepared and displayed in a natural posture. Taxidermy is applied to birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and even pets.
What Does Taxidermy Mean?
The word taxidermy comes from Greek:
- Taxie = move
- Dermie = skin
In other words, taxidermy is the artistic mounting and preservation of an animal's skin.
Why Do People Choose Taxidermy?
Many people like the idea of giving an animal a second life. A mounted animal can serve as:
- A decorative interior piece
- A unique trophy or collectible
- An educational tool for schools or museums
Taxidermy requires skill and years of experience. Under the guidance of a senior taxidermist, students learn techniques, anatomy, and the correct positioning of animals.
How Is an Animal Mounted? (Step by Step)
Preparing an animal is a meticulous process. A basic overview:
- Removing the skin: The skin is carefully separated from the body, taking into account the skull, legs, wings, and tail.
- Tanning: The skin is treated with tanning solution to make it durable.
- Cleaning and preservation: The skin must be thoroughly cleaned and preserved.
- Creating an artificial body: The body is recreated using foam, excelsior, or other materials.
- Positioning: The animal is placed in a natural posture on a chosen base (wood, plinth, or glass dome).
It is essential to research the anatomy of the animal beforehand. Inexperienced preparators may produce an unnatural result.
Learning Taxidermy and Its History
During the Victorian era, famous preparators such as Rowland Ward had apprentices who learned the art of mounting animals. Today, some taxidermists still work with students, focusing on techniques, anatomy, and positioning. After several years, apprentices can prepare animals independently.
Buying Mounted Animals and Custom Orders
We offer a wide range of mounted animals: from birds and mammals to fish, reptiles, and special trophies. All animals are professionally prepared by certified taxidermists and ethically sourced. Contact us if you are looking for a specific animal that is not listed online.
DIY Taxidermy and Supplies
Would you like to try taxidermy yourself? We also offer a range of taxidermy supplies, including tanning solutions, artificial bodies, tools, and guides. With these, you can practice mounting animals, from small pets to birds or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxidermy
Are the animals real?
Yes, all our mounted animals are real specimens, sourced from controlled, responsible collections or wildlife management. Any replicas are clearly indicated.
How is taxidermy performed?
Our certified preparators handle each animal with expertise, from skin care to mounting on an artificial body. The result is a durable and realistic specimen.
Can you prepare animals on request?
Yes, we have a large collection of animals available and can prepare animals to order. You can choose the posture and base. We can also process animals that you have collected yourself.
Do you mount pets as well?
Yes, we also mount pets, from dogs and cats to rodents and birds.
For more information about the process, visit our pet mounting page.
For more information about the process, visit our pet mounting page.
Do you have questions or special requests? Contact us. We are happy to help you find the perfect specimen.