Taxidermy

       

Taxidermy is a general term describing the many methods of reproducing a life-like three-dimensional representation of an animal for permanent display. In some cases, the actual skin (including the fur, feathers or scales) of the specimen is preserved and mounted over an artificial armature. In other cases, the specimen is reproduced completely with man-made materials. The word "taxidermy" is derived from two ancient Greek words; taxis, meaning movement; and derma, meaning skin. Therefore, loosely translated, taxidermy means the movement of skin. This is a fairly appropriate definition as many taxidermy procedures involve removing the natural skin from the specimen, replacing this skin over an artificial body, and adjusting the skin until it appears lifelike.

TYPES OF MOUNTS

Wall mounts
This is the traditional type of mount that is displayed hanging up on a wall. Only one side, the "show side", is visible to the viewer. They can be done in a wide variety of poses and display options.

Pedestal mounts
This type of mount is completely detailed on both sides so it can be viewed from any angle. It is usually displayed on a table or inside of a coffee table or display case. These can also be done in a variety of poses and display options.
Both the wall mount and pedestal mount can be "skin mounts" or fiberglass "reproductions".

 

Skin mounts

With skin mounts you receive back the actual fish you caught. Techniques, materials used, skill and artistic abilities differ from one taxidermist to the next so the results often vary considerably. Properly done, skin mounts will last for decades. Improperly done they may only last a few years. State of the art techniques are used throughout the process to insure our clients receive a finished mount that not only looks outstanding from the outside but is done right on the inside.

Reproductions

Reproductions are durable and require very little care. They can be hung over the fireplace as they aren't as vulnerable to temperature changes as skin mounts. If that trophy of a lifetime gets away just before you land it or you practice catch and release, reproductions are a good option. We order a blank that will match or come very close to the exact dimensions of your fish. Properly assembled, finished and painted they are difficult to tell apart from skin mounts. Even if you don't fish, but would like a mount for decoration, you can have virtually any type and size of fish you desire.


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Taxidermy