For many hunters, preserving the memories of their successful hunts is an essential part of the experience. One of the most favored methods for doing this is through taxidermy. Taxidermied animals not only serve as beautiful reminders of outdoor adventures, but they also highlight the mesmerizing beauty of nature.
4 Reasons Why Hunters Choose Taxidermy
Before we delve into specific species, it’s important to understand what makes taxidermy so appealing to hunters:
- Preservation of memories: Taxidermy lets hunters relive their experiences for years to come.
- Appreciation of nature: These mounts present a chance to admire wildlife’s beauty and intricacies up close.
- Educational value: Taxidermied animals can help educate others about wildlife and conservation.
- Decorative appeal: Skillfully crafted taxidermy can make for striking decorative features in homes or trophy rooms.
Popular Taxidermied Animals for Hunters
Let’s explore some of the most sought-after taxidermied animals and what makes them favorites among hunters.
1. Whitetail Deer
Whitetail deer are arguably the most commonly taxidermied animals in North America. Hunters value these mounts for a few reasons:
- Abundance: Whitetail deer are widespread, making them accessible to many hunters.
- Impressive antlers: Bucks with large antlers create stunning wall displays.
- Variety of poses: Taxidermists can craft lifelike poses, from alert stances to the iconic “sneak.”
Popular mount types include:
- Shoulder mount: The classic choice, showing the head, neck, and part of the shoulders.
- European mount: A cleaned skull with antlers, showcasing a unique look.
- Full-body mount: Though less common, it offers a dramatic display of the entire animal.
2. Elk
Elk are another favorite among hunters looking to preserve their trophies. These majestic animals bring:
- Impressive size: Elk are significantly larger than deer, giving a commanding presence.
- Magnificent antlers: Bull elk can have massive antlers, which make for awe-inspiring mounts.
- Challenge: Hunting elk is often seen as more challenging, making successful hunts even more memorable.
Common mount options include:
- Shoulder mount: The most popular, given space and budget considerations.
- European mount: Highlights the skull and antlers impressively.
- Full-body mount: Usually for trophy specimens due to cost and size.
3. Black Bear
Black bears offer a unique look compared to antlered game and have become popular for taxidermy:
- Unique appearance: Their fur and facial features create distinctive mounts.
- Variety of poses: Bears can be mounted standing, sitting, or walking.
- Challenge of hunts: Bear hunts are often deemed more thrilling and dangerous.
Common mounting styles for black bears include:
- Full-body mount: Preferred for showcasing the bear’s size and features.
- Rug mount: A traditional choice that serves practical use as a floor covering.
- Head mount: A compact option for limited spaces.
4. Wild Turkey
Though smaller than big game, wild turkeys are rising in popularity for taxidermy:
- Colorful plumage: The vibrant feathers make for stunning displays.
- Challenge of the hunt: Turkeys are known for their keen senses, making successful hunts particularly noteworthy.
- Compact size: Full-body mounts don’t require a lot of space.
Popular turkey mount options are:
- Full-strut mount: Displays the turkey in an impressive mating pose.
- Flying mount: Shows the bird in flight, often suspended from the ceiling.
- Tail fan and beard mount: A simpler option that highlights the most distinctive features.
5. Pronghorn Antelope
Unique to North America, pronghorn antelope offer intriguing choices for taxidermy:
- Distinctive horns: Their forked horns set them apart from other game.
- Speed representation: Known as the fastest land animal in North America, pronghorns symbolize the thrill of the hunt.
- Desert aesthetic: They add a touch of the American West to trophy rooms.
Typical mount types include:
- Shoulder mount: The most standard choice, showcasing the head and horns.
- Full-body mount: A less common but impressive option, often seen in a running pose.
6. Waterfowl
Ducks and geese are popular among bird hunters wanting to preserve their trophies:
- Variety of species: From mallards to wood ducks, each offers its own colors and patterns.
- Artistic poses: Taxidermists can create eye-catching flying or landing poses.
- Compact size: Multiple birds can be displayed without taking up too much space.
Common waterfowl mount styles include:
- Flying mount: Captures the bird mid-flight, often seen in pairs or groups.
- Standing mount: Displays the bird in a natural pose, either on the ground or simulated water.
- Scene mount: Features multiple birds in a realistic setting.
Choosing the Right Mount for Your Taxidermied Animals
When deciding on a mount for your taxidermied animals, consider these factors:
- Available space: Full-body mounts will need more room than shoulder or European mounts.
- Budget: Bigger and more detailed mounts typically come with a higher price tag.
- Personal preference: Pick a pose and style that reflects your hunting experience.
- Quality of the specimen: Some animals might be better suited for specific types of mounts, depending on their condition.
The Taxidermy Process
Knowing how taxidermied animals are prepared can help enhance your appreciation for the artistry involved:
- Skinning: The animal’s hide is carefully removed.
- Tanning: The hide is preserved to prevent decay.
- Mounting: The hide is stretched over a mold shaped like the animal.
- Detailing: Features such as eyes and noses are added or enhanced for realism.
- Finishing: Final touches like grooming and positioning are applied.
Caring for Your Taxidermied Animals
To keep your taxidermied animals looking their best:
- Keep them out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
- Dust them regularly with a soft brush or cloth.
- Avoid touching the mounts directly to prevent oil transfer from your hands.
- Control humidity to prevent mold.
- Consider professional cleaning every few years.
**Conclusion**
Taxidermied animals provide hunters with a lasting way to preserve their memories and express their appreciation for wildlife. From the majestic elk to the swift pronghorn, each mount tells a story of adventure and skill. By understanding the popular types of taxidermied animals and the various mounting options available, hunters can make informed choices on how best to commemorate their triumphs in the field.
Whether you opt for a classic shoulder mount of a whitetail deer or an energetic flying mount of a mallard duck, taxidermied animals stand as enduring reminders of the beauty of nature and the excitement of the hunt. As the art of taxidermy continues to develop, these preserved specimens will undoubtedly remain a significant part of hunting culture, inspiring future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
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Call: (610) 301-2333
Email: info@artisticvisionswildlife.com
Visit: 507 Benjamin Franklin Highway West, Douglassville, PA 19518
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