Evaluating Taxidermy Animals For Sale

By Bonnie Contreras


If you're interested in taxidermy animals for sale either locally or online, it's a good idea to learn about the subject. The 'art' of preserving mammals, reptiles, and amphibians has been practiced throughout human history, and there have always been good and bad examples of it. You won't want to spend good money on something that will disappoint, so know what to ask, look for, and expect before you begin.

Archaeologists have found preserved animals in the tombs of royal mummies, but they were embalmed. Taxidermists don't try to save the entire animal, and the process is entirely different. True taxidermy arose as explorers pushed into unknown lands, encountering exotic animals on land and in the sea. How-to guides to mounting specimens began to appear during the eighteenth century.

Using the skin and bones only, the taxidermist either tries to present the subject in a lifelike manner or departs from reality entirely by ending up with a creature from mythology or fantasy. During the Victorian age, people flocked to see exhibitions of animals like the platypus, as impossible-looking as any dragon or unicorn. Because hoaxes were common, many didn't know what to believe. Homeowners began to decorate with trophy heads and even 'saved' beloved pets.

Improved techniques and materials helped early twentieth-century taxidermists bring this craft to an art form. Their method of stretching a skin over a padded wire form is used today, as well as more modern polyurethane shapes. Truly realistic specimens of snarling cougars, rampaging elephants, and birds of prey can be seen at natural history museums and roadside exhibits. Glass eyes and replicas of fragile body parts help make the illusion convincing.

Fish are often assumed to be the real thing when displayed on a wall, However, the skin of a fish is very fragile, so what you see is often a precise replica done in resin or fiberglass. The spectacular catch itself was probably released or served up for dinner.

One thing to learn by surfing the web is that there are substandard examples of taxidermy. Skill and vision make the difference, as in any other art form. It's important to actually see the mounted animal, if possible. If this isn't feasible, consumers need to check out sources carefully by examining photographs (which can be deceiving), asking questions, and reading customer reviews. Areas which most often reveal flaws include the ears and nose.

There are many attractive sites online, with vivid photographs of red foxes, black bears, bobcats, and more. Even though you won't be buying based on photos alone, the galleries are fun to visit to see what's available. You might be picturing a wild animal in a hunting pose but find that you prefer one at rest or play.

The popularity of man caves opens up new venues for finding taxidermy animals for sale. A majestic black bear or vivid red fox can welcome guests with more impact than the usual beer sign. Fantastic creatures like the western Jackalope or the famous mermaid (actually a monkey and fish combo) show the range of possibilities.




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