Taxidermy is a complex process that requires precision, anatomical knowledge, and skilled craftsmanship. Each mount goes through several key stages to ensure a realistic appearance and long-lasting quality. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:

1. Initial Consultation and Animal Intake

Every project begins with a consultation. Together with the client, we determine the type of mount – whether it’s a full-body mount, shoulder mount, or another variant. We also discuss the desired pose, expression, and any specific details the client wants to include.

2. Initial Treatment and Skin Preservation

Once we receive the specimen, it undergoes immediate treatment to prevent tissue damage. This stage includes:
• Removing dirt and excess tissue
• Salting the hide to prevent decay and ensure preservation
• Freezing the hide if the mounting process doesn’t begin immediately
Proper handling at this stage is crucial to maintain the quality of the fur or feathers.

3. Tanning the Hide

Tanning is a chemical process that makes the skin flexible and durable. It involves:
• Degreasing and removing subcutaneous fat
• Chemical tanning or pickling to preserve and soften the hide
• Neutralization and drying in preparation for mounting
Well-tanned hides retain their natural look even after many years.

4. Creating the Form and Preparing the Skeleton

The preserved hide is fitted to an anatomically accurate form, which may be:
• A standard mannequin from catalogues – suitable for common species
• A custom sculpted form – ideal for special poses or unique projects
For skull mounts, this stage also includes whitening and stabilizing the skull.

5. Mounting the Specimen

With the hide tanned and the form ready, the mount takes shape:
• The skin is fitted over the form
• Each part is fixed in the chosen pose
• Details like skin tension, glass eyes, and facial features are recreated
This step demands meticulous precision to achieve a lifelike expression.

6. Final Touches and Detailing

To ensure a natural look, we apply the following refinements:
• Painting of the nose, lips, and eyelids
• Subtle shading and detail enhancement
• Grooming the fur or feathers for a natural finish
We use fine brushes, airbrush techniques, and specialized pigments to perfect the mount.

7. Finishing and Final Inspection

Before the piece is delivered, we conduct a thorough quality check:
• Verifying proportions and symmetry
• Ensuring visual balance and realism
• Making any final corrections if necessary
Every mount is crafted with the highest standards of realism and artistry.

8. Delivery to the Client

The finished mount is carefully prepared for handover. For wall mounts, clients can choose from various wooden plaques or diorama bases that replicate the animal’s natural habitat.
Each mount is a unique, handcrafted piece.

Thanks to our careful taxidermy process, clients receive a lasting and authentic tribute to their trophy.

In Conclusion

Taxidermy is a fusion of science, technique, and craftsmanship. Every specimen that passes through our hands reflects our experience and dedication. Our goal isn’t just to create a realistic mount – we aim to preserve a story, a memory, and a once-in-a-lifetime hunting moment. Whatever your trophy, we treat it with the care it deserves so it can be cherished for decades to come.