As another year is tip-toeing in to another, I wanted to reflect and recap on all of the wonderful projects I have worked on in 2025 before I close the workshop for the Christmas break (although I am sure I will still squeeze in a project somewhere between the merriment and mince pies!).
It has been SO hard to choose a ‘favourite’ project of 2025, because I have worked with some absolutely stellar specimens this year, some of which I never thought I’d get the opportunity to work with! So, instead of a Taxidermy Top 5…this is more…5 lots of number 1’s!
1. Bengal Tiger Restoration
2025 certainly got off to a ‘roaring’ start, with this Antique Bengal Tiger restoration. Probably the most complex, but most rewarding project of the year -considering the state of the poor thing when it turned up.
If you didn’t follow the journey at the time, I urge you to check out the blog post I did earlier on in the year to see the ‘before’ photo to get the full picture!
I have had the pleasure of seeing Nightjar in the wilds of East Anglia on hazy summer evenings. The idiosynchratic ‘churring’ of the male combined with the classic wing claps has got to be one of my most magical wildlife moments, so actually having the opportunity to study this unique species in close up detail, was certainly a highlight of the year for me. Sadly, this specimen was euthanised after an irreparable wing injury. What a bird!
2. Nightjar
3. Tree Sparrow
From one rarity to another…the Tree Sparrow is a bird that has eluded me for many years out in the field. Although, it’s not surprising, given their red listed conservation status following their 93% population decline since the 1970’s in the UK.
I find it rather sad that my first proper look that I’ve got of a Tree Sparrow, was on my taxidermy bench! This being said, it has been a huge privilege to be able to work so closely with one. I paired this specimen with some handmade autumnal hawthorn with cast leaves from local plants, as I have been very inspired by the bountiful hedgerows this year!
I always have a slight love/hate relationship with a peacock project, but it’s always worth it in the end! This particular specimen took almost 17 months to complete, due to various damages he incurred at his untimely demise.
It takes a long time to source the specific feathers in order to make those repairs, as well as the fact I had to recreate the magnificent train that peacocks are known for, as he was partially in moult. I absolutely loved the antique base I found for this chap, I think it complimented him really well and looked really regal upon completion and was certainly a standout project of 2025!
4. Indian Peafowl
5. Common Lizard
So that was my ‘top 5’, but here are some other notable taxidermy projects I have worked on throughout the year that can’t go amiss!
What’s on the taxidermy agenda for 2026?
As hard as it is for me to say ‘no’ to potential clients requests, next year, my commissions will be taking a back seat. For many years now, I have been wanting to work through some of the specimens in my personal freezer inventory, but I have always prioritised my commissions, which hasn’t given me the opportunity to do this.
I have some seriously amazing specimens hidden in the icy depths of my freezer that have been in there for over a decade, along side some creative ideas I’ve been harbouring for just as long. I am so excited to manifest these unbridled creative concepts in to reality in 2026, alongside some other really exciting projects that have been a long time in the making!
Thank You!
I just wanted to end this blog with a GIGANTIC thank you to all my clients who have commissioned work from me this year, as well as those who have purchased from my store, or simply shown support in any which way. I am extremely grateful for you all and I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas – may all of your wishes come true in 2026.