Taxidermy in South Africa

South Africa is renowned for its world-class taxidermy services, offering an exceptional blend of artistry, precision, and tradition. Here, the craft of preserving hunting memories has been elevated to an art form, with each piece meticulously crafted to capture the essence and grandeur of the wildlife that roams its breath-taking landscapes.

Mounting Excellence

South African taxidermists are masters at creating lifelike mounts that honour the spirit of the hunt. Whether it's a majestic kudu with its iconic spiral horns or a fierce lion caught mid-roar, these artisans work with unparalleled attention to detail. They use cutting-edge techniques alongside traditional methods to ensure that every muscle, every wrinkle, and every expression is authentically replicated. The result? A trophy that is not just a souvenir but a timeless piece of art that immortalizes your hunting experience.

Global Export Services

Beyond the artistry, South Africa's taxidermy industry is highly efficient in managing the logistics of exporting your trophies to any corner of the globe. They handle all aspects of the process, from meticulous preparation and packaging to ensuring compliance with international regulations. This seamless service guarantees that your mounted trophies arrive at your doorstep in pristine condition, ready to be displayed and admired.

Custom Creations

For those seeking something truly unique, South African taxidermists offer bespoke services. Whether you want a full-body mount, a shoulder mount, or even a custom diorama that tells the story of your hunt, they can bring your vision to life. The options are as limitless as your imagination.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices

In a country that values its rich biodiversity, taxidermy in South Africa is deeply rooted in sustainable practices. Many taxidermists work closely with conservationists to ensure that hunting contributes positively to wildlife management and preservation efforts. This commitment to ethical practices not only enhances the value of your trophy but also ensures that future generations can enjoy the same extraordinary wildlife encounters.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or an enthusiast looking to capture an once-in-a-lifetime experience, South Africa offers taxidermy services that are second to none. Your trophy is more than just a memory—it's a masterpiece, expertly crafted and preserved for you to cherish forever.

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT MOUNT TYPES AND REQUIRED SKIN CUTS

On arrival at the skinning facility the PH will ask you how you would like your animal skinned and for what type of mount. 

In taxidermy, the type of skin cut used plays a crucial role in determining the final presentation of the mounted trophy. Each cut is designed for specific mounting styles, ensuring that the taxidermist can achieve the desired pose and display while maintaining the integrity and natural appearance of the animal.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of mounts and skin cuts used in taxidermy:

1.   Full-Body Mount (Life-Size Mount)

• Description: A full-body mount, as the name suggests, involves the entire body of the animal being preserved and mounted in a lifelike pose.
• Common Use: Full-body mounts are used for a wide variety of animals, including big game, predators, birds, and even smaller mammals. They are particularly popular for animals with distinctive body shapes or those that are difficult to display as just a head mount.
• Presentation: These mounts are often displayed on custom bases or platforms that simulate the animal’s natural habitat, such as rocks, trees, or grasslands. Full-body mounts can be placed on the floor, in the centre of a room, or on a pedestal.

Full Skin (Life-size Cut)

• Purpose: Used for full-body mounts, where the entire animal is recreated in a lifelike pose.
• Description: The entire skin of the animal is removed, typically through an incision made along the underbelly from the throat to the base of the tail. Additional cuts may be made along the inside of the legs to free the limbs. This cut allows the taxidermist to recreate the animal's full form, perfect for dramatic displays showcasing the animal in natural poses.

2.   Shoulder Mount

• Description: The shoulder mount is one of the most popular and recognizable forms of taxidermy. It includes the head, neck, and a portion of the upper shoulders of the animal.
• Common Use: This type is commonly used for big game animals like deer, antelope, buffalo, and other species with prominent horns or antlers. It's ideal for displaying the headgear and facial features of the animal.
• Presentation: Shoulder mounts are typically wall-mounted and can be positioned to face forward or slightly turned to either side.

Cape Skin (Shoulder Mount Cut)

• Purpose: Ideal for shoulder mounts, commonly used for trophies like deer, antelope, or other large game.
• Description: The skin is cut from just behind the front legs up to the back of the head, covering the shoulders and neck, but excluding the full back and belly. This cut preserves the head, neck, and upper shoulder area, allowing for a striking mount that highlights the animal’s head and horns or antlers.

3.   Pedestal Mount

• Description: A pedestal mount can be a variation of a shoulder, half-body, or even full-body mount, where the mounted animal is displayed on a base rather than hung on a wall.
• Common Use: Pedestal mounts are popular for showcasing animals in a more dynamic or three-dimensional way, allowing the viewer to appreciate the mount from all angles. They are often used for animals like deer, big cats, or exotic game.
• Presentation: These mounts are typically placed on a custom-built stand or platform and can be rotated or viewed from multiple sides, adding versatility to the display.

Dorsal Cut (Back Skin)

• Purpose: Commonly used for lifelike or pedestal mounts where the animal is posed naturally or standing on all fours.
• Description: A single incision is made along the spine from the back of the head to the base of the tail. This method minimizes visible seams in the final mount, as the cut is along the back, which is less visible when the animal is displayed. It’s particularly useful for predators like big cats, where the body’s natural musculature needs to be showcased.

4.   Half-Body Mount

• Description: The half-body mount includes the head, neck, shoulders, and front legs, extending down to the midsection of the animal.
• Common Use: This mount style is a compromise between a full-body and a shoulder mount, providing more of the animal’s body while still conserving space.
• Presentation: Like shoulder mounts, half-body mounts are often wall-mounted but require more space due to the additional body length.

Half Mount Skin (Full Shoulder Mount Cut)

• Purpose: Ideal for half mounts, commonly used for trophies like deer, antelope, or other large game.
• Description: The skin is cut from just the belly to include the front legs up to the back of the head, covering the shoulders and neck. This cut preserves the head, neck, upper shoulder area and legs including the hooves, allowing for a striking mount that highlights the animal’s head and horns or antlers.

OTHER TYPES OF MOUNTS

Each type of mount offers a unique way to display and celebrate your hunting trophies, allowing you to choose the style that best fits your space, aesthetic preferences, and the story you want to tell with your trophy.

European Mount (Skull Mount)

• Description: A European mount involves the skull of the animal being cleaned, bleached, and sometimes mounted on a plaque or left as a free-standing piece.
• Common Use: This mount is popular for deer, elk, and other horned or antlered species. It’s a minimalist, yet striking, way to display the skull and antlers or horns of the animal.
• Presentation: European mounts are usually wall-mounted, but can also be displayed on stands or within shadow boxes for a more artistic presentation.

Rug Mount

• Description: A rug mount involves the entire skin of the animal being tanned and stretched flat, often with the head mounted in a three-dimensional form.
• Common Use: This mount is typically used for large predators like bears, lions, or tigers, where the pelt’s size and texture are as much of a feature as the head itself.
• Presentation: Rug mounts are usually displayed on the floor or draped over furniture, with the mounted head serving as a focal point.

Wall Pedestal Mount

• Description: Similar to a shoulder mount but designed to project outward from the wall, creating a more dynamic display.
• Common Use: This mount is ideal for showcasing animals with impressive headgear or unique features, like a twisting kudu or a big-horned ram.
• Presentation: Wall pedestal mounts are wall-mounted but are crafted to appear as though the animal is emerging from the wall, adding depth and dimension to the display.

Head Mount (Skull Cap Mount)

• Description: A head mount, or skull cap mount, involves the top portion of the skull, including the antlers or horns, being mounted on a plaque.
• Common Use: This is a simpler, more economical alternative to a full shoulder mount and is often used when space or budget is a consideration.
• Presentation: Typically wall-mounted, these mounts focus on the antlers or horns and are often paired with a decorative plaque or shield.

Trophy Panel Mount

• Description: In this mount, the head or skull cap of the animal is mounted on a decorative panel or shield.
• Common Use: Trophy panel mounts are popular for displaying the antlers or horns of game animals in a more formal or traditional way.
• Presentation: These mounts are wall-mounted, with the panel or shield often featuring engravings or custom designs to commemorate the hunt.

OTHER TYPES OF SKIN CUTS

Each of these skinning techniques is chosen based on the desired outcome for the final mount. The choice of cut ensures that the taxidermist can achieve the most natural, lifelike appearance while maintaining the structural integrity of the trophy.

Ventral Cut (Belly Skin)

• Purpose: Often used for rug mounts or life-size mounts of small to medium-sized animals.
• Description: The incision is made along the belly, from the throat to the tail. This method is ideal for animals that will be displayed flat, such as in a rug mount, where the underside is less visible. It also allows easy access for creating a full-body mount.

Flat Skin (Rug Cut)

• Purpose: Specifically designed for rug mounts, where the animal is laid out flat.
• Description: The skin is cut in a way that allows the animal to be splayed out completely. This typically involves a belly cut combined with cuts along the inside of the legs. The head is often left intact and mounted separately, with the skin spread out to showcase the full pelt.

Tube Skinning

• Purpose: Suitable for smaller animals or for specific mounting styles where the skin is pulled off like a tube.
• Description: No cuts are made along the belly or back; instead, the skin is removed by making an incision around the animal's neck or anus and then pulling the skin off the body like a sleeve. This method is often used for small mammals and birds where a seamless look is desired.

THE COST OF TAXIDERMY

Pricing for taxidermy mounts can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of animal, the complexity of the mount, the taxidermist's experience, and regional pricing differences.

These prices provide a general guide, but it's always best to consult directly with a taxidermist for a precise quote tailored to your specific needs.

Below is a general overview of what you might expect to pay for different types of mounts:

1. Shoulder Mounts

• Deer (Whitetail, Mule Deer): $500 - $900
• Elk: $1,200 - $2,000
• Antelope: $600 - $1,000
• Buffalo: $2,000 - $3,500
• African Game (Kudu, Gemsbok): $900 - $2,000

2. Full-Body Mounts

• Small Mammals (Fox, Bobcat, Coyote): $1,000 - $2,500
• Medium Game (Wild Boar, Black Bear): $2,500 - $5,000
• Large Game (Mountain Lion, Grizzly Bear): $4,000 - $8,000
• African Game (Leopard, Zebra): $3,500 - $10,000
• Birds (Ducks, Pheasants): $300 - $800
• Waterfowl (Geese, Swans): $500 - $1,200

3. European (Skull) Mounts

• Deer (Whitetail, Mule Deer): $100 - $250
• Elk: $250 - $500
• Antelope: $150 - $300
• African Game (Impala, Kudu): $200 - $500
• Bear (Black, Grizzly): $300 - $700

4. Pedestal Mounts

• Small to Medium Game (Antelope, Wild Boar): $1,200 - $3,000
• Large Game (Elk, Buffalo): $3,000 - $7,000
• African Game (Kudu, Eland): $2,000 - $5,000

5. Rug Mounts

• Small to Medium Predators (Coyote, Fox): $800 - $2,000
• Large Predators (Black Bear, Mountain Lion): $2,000 - $5,000
• Grizzly Bear: $4,000 - $8,000
• African Predators (Leopard, Lion): $5,000 - $10,000

6. Bird Mounts

• Small Birds (Songbirds, Quail): $200 - $500
• Game Birds (Pheasants, Grouse): $300 - $700
• Waterfowl (Ducks, Geese): $400 - $1,200
• Large Birds (Turkey, Swan): $1,000 - $2,500

7. Fish Mounts

• Small Fish (Bass, Trout): $15 - $25 per inch
• Large Fish (Marlin, Pike): $20 - $35 per inch
• Reproductions (Fiberglass Mounts): $20 - $40 per inch

8. Custom or Specialized Mounts

• Custom Dioramas: Pricing can vary significantly, ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the complexity, size, and materials required.
• Unique Positions or Poses: Add an additional 10-30% to the base cost of the mount.

Factors Influencing Pricing

• Size of the Animal: Larger animals require more materials, time, and effort, leading to higher costs.
• Complexity of the Mount: More intricate poses, custom bases, or detailed habitat scenes increase the price.
• Experience and Reputation of the Taxidermist: Highly skilled and renowned taxidermists often charge more due to their expertise and the demand for their services.
• Region: Prices can vary by region, with some areas having higher operating costs or higher demand, leading to higher prices.
• Turnaround Time: Rush orders or faster turnaround times may incur additional fees.

Additional Costs

• Shipping and Crating: If you need your mount shipped, particularly internationally, expect to pay extra for crating and shipping costs, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Mount Maintenance and Repairs: Ongoing maintenance or future repairs, especially for older mounts, can add to the lifetime cost of ownership.
• Permits and Fees: Depending on the species and country of origin, there may be additional fees for permits, especially for endangered or protected species.

SOUTH AFRICA VS USA TAXIDERMY

When comparing taxidermy between the USA and South Africa, both countries offer exceptional services, but there are notable differences in focus, style, and pricing due to their distinct wildlife, hunting cultures, and market demands.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Wildlife and Specialization

• South Africa
• Focus: South Africa is world-renowned for its extensive array of African game, including the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) as well as other iconic species like kudu, impala, and gemsbok. Taxidermists in South Africa often specialize in these animals, offering detailed, lifelike recreations that capture the unique characteristics of African wildlife.
• Specialization: South African taxidermists are adept at creating both full-body mounts and shoulder mounts for large and exotic species. They are also skilled in mounting dangerous game and handling the complex logistics involved in exporting these trophies internationally.
• USA
• Focus: In the USA, taxidermy is often cantered around North American game, such as whitetail deer, elk, moose, black bears, and various bird species. The industry is well-developed with a strong emphasis on big game, waterfowl, and fish.
• Specialization: American taxidermists are known for their expertise in creating detailed shoulder mounts, pedestal mounts, and full-body mounts, particularly for large game animals like deer and elk. Fish taxidermy, including both skin mounts and replicas, is also highly specialized in the USA.

2. Artistry and Style

• South Africa
• Artistic Approach: South African taxidermy often emphasizes realism and dramatic poses that reflect the natural behaviour of the animals. There is a strong focus on recreating the dynamic and often aggressive stances typical of African wildlife, especially for big game species.
• Habitat Scenes: Taxidermists in South Africa frequently create elaborate habitat dioramas that mimic the African savannah, bushveld, or desert environments, using native materials to enhance the authenticity of the display.
• USA
• Artistic Approach: In the USA, the style can range from highly realistic to more stylized interpretations, depending on the client’s preference. There is also a strong tradition of trophy panels and classic shoulder mounts that emphasize the animal's head and antlers.
• Habitat Scenes: American taxidermy often includes detailed bases and natural settings that represent North American environments, such as forests, mountains, or wetlands. The emphasis may be more on showcasing the animal’s size and antlers/horns than on dynamic poses.

3. Pricing

• South Africa
• Costs: Generally, taxidermy in South Africa is more affordable compared to the USA, even for large and exotic species. The lower labour and material costs contribute to this, making it an attractive option for international hunters.
• Value: Despite the lower pricing, the quality is exceptionally high, with many taxidermists providing world-class mounts that are comparable to, or even better than, those produced elsewhere.
• USA
• Costs: Taxidermy in the USA tends to be more expensive, particularly for big game and custom mounts. The higher cost is often attributed to higher labour costs and the demand for premium materials.
• Value: American taxidermists often charge more due to the market's expectations for perfection and the detailed craftsmanship involved, especially with trophy game and fish.

4. Turnaround Time

• South Africa
• Timeframe: Turnaround times can vary, but it’s common for taxidermy work in South Africa to take several months to over a year, particularly for complex projects or during peak hunting seasons. The time needed for export permits and international shipping can also extend the process.
• USA
• Timeframe: In the USA, the turnaround time can also be lengthy, with many taxidermists quoting several months to a year, depending on their workload and the complexity of the mount. Rush services are sometimes available for an additional fee.

5. Export and Shipping

• South Africa
• Export Expertise: South African taxidermists are well-versed in the intricacies of exporting trophies to international clients. They handle all necessary documentation, permits (like CITES), and crating to ensure that trophies are safely transported to their final destination.
• Logistics: Because most trophies in South Africa are intended for international shipment, taxidermists are experienced in preparing mounts for long journeys, ensuring they arrive in pristine condition.
• USA
• Domestic and International Shipping: While American taxidermists also handle international shipments, the majority of their work is shipped within the USA. For international clients, they handle permits and documentation but may outsource some logistics.
• Ease of Domestic Shipping: For U.S. hunters, shipping trophies within the country is straightforward, with many taxidermists offering local delivery or shipping options.

6. Cultural and Historical Context

• South Africa
• Cultural Significance: Taxidermy in South Africa is deeply tied to the country’s hunting traditions and conservation efforts. Many taxidermists work closely with hunting guides and reserves, ensuring that their work supports sustainable hunting practices.
• Conservation Role: The industry often contributes to conservation by providing funds through hunting permits that are reinvested in wildlife management and protection.
• USA
• Cultural Significance: In the USA, taxidermy is also tied to hunting culture, with a strong tradition of preserving trophies as symbols of achievement and connection to the natural world. It’s common to see taxidermy in hunting lodges, homes, and museums.
• Heritage: The American taxidermy industry has a long history, with many taxidermists continuing techniques passed down through generations, while also integrating modern methods.

Conclusion

Both South Africa and the USA offer outstanding taxidermy services, but the choice between the two often comes down to the type of game hunted, the desired style of the mount, and personal preferences regarding pricing and turnaround time. South Africa is a leader in African big game taxidermy, offering high-quality mounts at competitive prices, with expertise in international shipping. The USA excels in North American game, with a strong tradition of detailed craftsmanship and a wide range of services, from realistic mounts to artistic interpretations.

CARING FOR YOUR MOUNTS

Preserving taxidermy trophies requires care and attention to ensure they maintain their lifelike appearance and structural integrity over time.

Here are some essential tips to help you keep your taxidermy pieces in excellent condition:

1. Control the Environment

• Temperature: Keep your trophies in a stable environment with moderate temperatures. Extreme heat can cause the skin to dry out and crack, while excessive cold can make it brittle. Aim for a consistent temperature around 65-75°F (18-24°C).
• Humidity: Maintain a humidity level between 40-60%. High humidity can lead to mould growth and cause the skin to deteriorate, while low humidity can cause the skin to dry out and shrink. Using a dehumidifier or humidifier can help keep the humidity level stable.

2. Dust Regularly

• Frequency: Dust your taxidermy mounts regularly, at least once a month, to prevent build-up that can attract pests or cause discoloration.
• Method: Use a soft brush, feather duster, or compressed air to gently remove dust. Start from the top and work your way down, following the direction of the fur, feathers, or scales. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as it can be too powerful and damage the mount.

3. Keep Away from Direct Sunlight

• Why: Direct sunlight can cause colours to fade and the skin to dry out and crack over time.
• Solution: Place your mounts in areas where they are not exposed to direct sunlight. If they must be near a window, use UV-protective glass or curtains to minimize exposure.

4. Protect from Pests

• Common Pests: Insects like moths, carpet beetles, and rodents can damage taxidermy by eating the skin, fur, or stuffing.
• Prevention: Regularly inspect your mounts for signs of pests. Use insect repellents, such as mothballs or cedar wood, in the vicinity of your trophies. If you spot any pests or signs of infestation (like small holes or loose fur), take immediate action by consulting a pest control professional.

5. Handle with Care

• Moving: When moving a mount, handle it by the base or a sturdy part of the form (like the shoulders) rather than delicate areas like the ears, horns, or antlers.
• Avoid Touching: Oils and dirt from your hands can damage the fur, feathers, or skin, so avoid touching the mounts directly as much as possible. If you need to handle them, consider wearing gloves.

6. Routine Inspection

• Why: Regularly inspect your mounts for signs of damage, such as loose or missing fur, fading, cracks in the skin, or insect activity.
• What to look For: Pay special attention to areas around the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, as these can be more prone to deterioration. Catching issues early can prevent them from becoming severe problems.

7. Repair and Restoration

• Minor Repairs: If you notice minor issues, like loose stitching or small cracks, address them promptly. You can use a small amount of taxidermy glue or contact a professional for advice on DIY repairs.
• Professional Restoration: For significant damage, fading, or if you are unsure how to proceed, consult a professional taxidermist. They can offer restoration services to repair or refresh your trophies.

8. Cleaning the Eyes and Antlers

• Eyes: Clean the glass eyes gently with a soft cloth dampened with water. Avoid using any abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
• Antlers and Horns: Polish antlers and horns with a soft, dry cloth. For a deeper clean, you can use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, followed by drying them thoroughly.

9. Proper Display

• Positioning: Ensure mounts are securely hung or placed to prevent accidents. Use sturdy wall anchors for wall-mounted pieces and stable bases for freestanding mounts.
• Spacing: Give each mount enough space to avoid crowding, which can lead to accidental damage or stress on the mounts.

10. Consider Protective Cases

• Why: For especially valuable or delicate pieces, consider placing them in protective glass cases. This not only helps in keeping dust and pests at bay but also adds an extra layer of protection against physical damage.

By following these preservation tips, you can ensure that your taxidermy trophies remain in pristine condition for years to come, allowing you to enjoy and showcase your hunting memories with pride.