Taxidermy – Behind the scenes

Taxidermy, what happens behind the scenes?

A brief overview

The latest commission I completed was that of a two dead mount birds. (Birds purposely modelled made to look ‘dead’) As well as beautiful objects to look at, these specimens were commissioned to be used as film props. The customer requested photos of me working on the birds, so I set up my camera in my workshop.

I thought some of the shots were pretty cool and give a brief snapshot as to what goes on behind the scenes in the art of taxidermy. My personal favourite bit is blow-drying them after the skins have been treated and washed. It always amazes me how a weedy, wet looking lump of skin and clumped feathers can somehow be dried and fluffed up to resemble the bird it once was, once again!

I had a big response on instagram with these images.

It’s not everyones cup of tea, but I thought you’d like to see them too.

(don’t look if you’re squeamish)

Taxidermy behind the scenes work in progress

Taxidermy Yellowhammer Commission

Taxidermy Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella): I had the pleasure of working on this beautiful British bunting.

Unfortunately, the male Yellowhammer got lost in the post for a day, resulting in him fully defrosting and starting to turn.

This is usually game over for small birds, as they start to decompose fairly quick – I didn’t hold out much hope.

Despite soaking in alcohol for a while to toughen the skin and kill bacteria that makes the skin bad and feathers fall out, lots did.

I persevered anyway and did the best I could.

His back was completely bald and he had some secondary feathers missing on one side, which was a great shame.

Painstakingly, I glued as many feathers back as I could, and despite his condition, I’m very happy with how he turned out.

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