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A beautiful taxidermy animal can be a special object for an interior, collection or enthusiast. But are you allowed to buy and sell any taxidermy animal just like that?

The short answer is: No, not always.

Legal rules on possession, purchase and sale apply to some animal species. This is mainly related to the protection of wild animals and plants. CITES plays an important role in this, but it is not the only legislation that may need to be taken into account.

Anyone buying a taxidermy animal would therefore do well to look not only at the appearance and quality of a specimen, but also at the species, origin and any accompanying documentation.

Not every taxidermy animal is subject to the same rules

A taxidermy animal is not automatically the same as a live animal in legal terms. However, rules for protected species can also apply to dead animals, specimens and parts thereof.

The first question is therefore always: What animal species is it?

Some species are covered by CITES. Other species may, for example, be subject to European or Dutch protection regulations. The rules can also differ depending on the species, the origin of the animal and what you want to do with the specimen.

The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) provide information on this and supervise various aspects of the regulations concerning protected animals and products derived from them.

What does CITES have to do with this?

CITES is an international agreement that regulates trade in certain wild animals and plants. The rules are intended to prevent international trade from posing a threat to the survival of species.

CITES is not only about live animals. Products and parts from protected animals can also fall under the regulations. A taxidermy animal can therefore also fall under them.

Depending on the species and the situation, documents, certificates, markings or other evidence may be required. It may also make a difference whether a specimen is purchased within the European Union, imported from another country or exported to another country.

You can read more about CITES and its significance within taxidermy in our article What is CITES?.

Why is the origin of a taxidermy item important?

For protected species, it is important that the legal origin of a specimen can be demonstrated.

The mere fact that an animal has existed for a long time or has been part of a collection for years does not automatically mean that it may be traded without further documentation.

In the trade of protected species, proof of legal origin can therefore play an important role. Depending on the situation, this proof may consist of, for example, CITES documents, transfer documents, markings or other documents showing the origin.

At By Max, sales begin before going online.

At By Max, we consider this one of the most important aspects of offering taxidermy.

Before a taxidermy specimen is offered to us, we check which animal species it is, its origin and which documentation applies. When specific documents or permits are required for a taxidermy specimen, these must be in order before the animal is offered.

We do not want our customers to face any surprises afterwards. That is why we consider accurate administration and demonstrable provenance to be just as important as the quality and appearance of the specimen itself.

This is certainly very important for protected species.

Can you bring a taxidermy animal back from abroad?

This is often where it gets extra complicated.

A specimen that is offered for sale without issue in another country may not automatically be brought into the Netherlands without further formalities. For protected species, specific permits or certificates may be required for import.

Even when it concerns an old specimen or an animal product, it is important to check in advance which rules apply. The rules may also differ by species and by country.

Anyone wishing to bring a protected animal or product thereof into the Netherlands would therefore be wise to do this in advance to check with the competent authority.

What should you look out for as a buyer?

When you want to buy a taxidermy animal, there are a number of questions you can ask yourself:

• What animal species is it exactly?
• Does this species fall under CITES or other protection regulations?
• Where does the specimen come from?
• Is the legal origin demonstrable?
• Are the required documents or other supporting evidence present?
• Are there specific conditions associated with ownership or trade?
• Do you want to take the specimen to another country or sell it there later?

Especially with unusual or protected animal species, it is wise to ask these questions for the purchase to ask.

At By Max, we check these matters before a taxidermy specimen is offered. The required documentation must be in order before an animal is put up for sale with us.

Why is documentation also important for the buyer?

Good documentation is not only important for the seller. As a buyer, you also want to know what you are buying and whether the provenance of a specimen can be demonstrated.

This becomes important, for example, if you later want to sell, move or take a taxidermy specimen to another country. Depending on the species and the situation, rules may apply again.

A purchase is therefore not only about the physical specimen. For protected species, the associated administration and documentation are also part of the animal’s story.

And what about at By Max?

Over the years, By Max has owned thousands of specimens and works with a highly diverse collection of taxidermy animals, skulls, skeletons and other naturalia.

Precisely because of that large collection, we consider it important to handle origin and regulations carefully.

Checking the correct documentation is not a final step for us after an animal has been sold. It is an important part of the process before a taxidermy specimen is even offered.

In doing so, we look at the species, its origin and the documents that apply to the specimen in question.

When relevant documentation is available for a taxidermy specimen, we can of course provide information about it.

In addition to taxidermy animals, you will also find an extensive collection at By Max skulls and skeletons. More information about our collection and working methods can be found on our About us page.

Check it before you buy

Buying a taxidermy animal is therefore not always as simple as choosing and taking home a decorative object.

For many species, there are no particular issues, but for protected animals specific rules and documentation may apply.

Not sure whether a specimen may be bought or sold? First check the species, its origin and the applicable regulations.

RVO and NVWA provide information about protected animals, CITES and the rules surrounding possession, transport and trade. If in doubt about a specific situation, it is advisable to contact the competent authority in advance.

At By Max, we believe it is important that customers can purchase a taxidermy specimen with complete peace of mind. That is why, for us, a proper sale starts with proper provenance and the correct documentation.

Please note: regulations concerning protected animals and CITES may change. The information in this article is intended as a general explanation and does not replace individual legal advice. If in doubt, always check the current regulations and information from the competent authorities.

How is an animal actually turned into taxidermy? It is a question we regularly get at By Max. Many people see the final result of taxidermy, but give less thought to how much knowledge, preparation and craftsmanship goes into it beforehand.

Taxidermy is much more than placing a skin over a model. The anatomy, posture, proportions and finish all have to be carefully coordinated to achieve a natural result.

In this article, we take you into the world of taxidermy and explain in broad terms how an animal is mounted and which steps are involved.

What is taxidermy?

Taxidermy is the preservation and preparation of an animal, while retaining its appearance and natural form as well as possible. The aim is to give the animal a lifelike appearance.

Knowledge of the animal's anatomy is essential for this. A taxidermist must know how the body is structured, how the muscles and joints behave, and how the skin, fur or feathers naturally sit.

A good taxidermy piece therefore aims not only to preserve the appearance of an animal, but also its natural posture and character.

It starts with good preparation

Before an animal is actually prepared, the condition and possibilities of the specimen are assessed first. No two animals are the same, and the method can vary greatly depending on the species.

The taxidermist looks at the skin, fur or feathers, among other things, as well as any damage. It is also decided what posture the animal will ultimately have and how the taxidermy piece will be constructed.

Good preparation is important because much of the final quality is already determined during this stage.

The skin forms the basis

In many forms of taxidermy, the animal's skin is carefully prepared and preserved. Ultimately, the skin must fit as naturally as possible around the anatomical form of the taxidermy piece.

This is a precise process. The skin must not be unnaturally tight, but it must also not be placed too loosely or with folds. The natural proportions of the animal must be preserved.

With different animal species, this is approached in different ways. A bird, for example, requires a different method from a mammal.

The anatomical form

Once the skin has been prepared, the natural form of the animal has to be built up. A suitable anatomical base is used or made for this purpose.

The proportions must be accurate. The length of the body, the position of the legs, the shape of the chest and the position of the head all influence the final result.

This is one of the reasons why knowledge of anatomy is so important in taxidermy. A small deviation in the proportions can make an animal look unnatural.

The posture gives the animal character

A taxidermy piece is more than an anatomically correct body. The posture also largely determines how the animal is perceived.

A bird, for example, can sit calmly, look around alertly or adopt a more active pose. With a mammal, the position of the head, legs and tail can make the difference between a static and a lively appearance.

A natural posture must suit the animal. This takes into account the way the animal moves and behaves in nature.

The eyes are an important detail

The eyes play a special role in taxidermy. They largely determine the expression and appearance of the taxidermy piece.

The position, shape and direction of the eyes must suit the chosen posture. When this is done well, a natural gaze is created that gives the animal much more character.

That is precisely why the eyes are among the details to which an experienced taxidermist pays a great deal of attention.

Fur and feathers are carefully finished

Once the skin has been placed correctly, the fur or feathers are carefully arranged in their natural position.

With mammals, the fur must fall naturally and the hairs must follow the shape of the body. With birds, this is just as important for the feathers. The way the feathers lie on the wings, chest and tail, for example, largely determines how natural the taxidermy piece looks.

Here too, much of the craftsmanship lies in the details. A taxidermy piece may be anatomically correct, yet still look unnatural if the fur or feathers have not been finished properly.

The small details make the difference

When the main lines of the taxidermy piece are right, attention is paid to the smaller parts. Think, for example, of feet, claws, beak, nose, ears and other delicate details.

These parts are relatively small, but they have a major influence on the appearance of the whole piece. A carefully finished taxidermy piece therefore forms a cohesive whole in which all parts fit together.

Would you like to know what to look out for yourself when assessing a taxidermy piece? Then also read our article How do you recognise a high-quality taxidermy animal?.

A suitable base or surface

The presentation of a taxidermy piece is also part of the final result. An animal can, for example, be placed on a wooden base, a natural surface or another suitable structure.

The surface should complement the animal without drawing attention away from it. For some taxidermy pieces, a simple presentation is deliberately chosen, while another posture may call for a more elaborate base.

How long does it take to mount an animal?

There is no general timeframe for this. The time required depends greatly on the animal species, the size of the animal, the chosen posture and the desired finish.

A small taxidermy piece can take considerably less time than a large and complex animal. Unusual postures or elaborate bases can also involve additional work.

That is why taxidermy is not a production process in which every animal is finished in exactly the same amount of time. Each taxidermy piece requires its own approach.

Why does one taxidermy piece look more natural than another?

The difference often lies in a combination of factors. The anatomy must be correct, the posture must be natural, and the skin, fur or feathers must be carefully finished.

The eyes and small details also play an important role. It is precisely when all these elements come together well that a taxidermy piece looks natural and convincing.

That is also why two taxidermy pieces of the same animal species can still look very different.

Craftsmanship lies in the details

At By Max, when it comes to taxidermy, we do not look only at the final result. It is precisely the small details that say a lot about the quality of a taxidermy piece: from the anatomy and posture to the eyes, feathers, fur and finish.

Taxidermy is a combination of knowledge and craftsmanship

Mounting an animal requires more than technical skills. A taxidermist must have knowledge of anatomy and materials, but also a feel for proportions, posture and detail.

The ultimate goal is always the same: to create a taxidermy piece in which the character and natural appearance of the animal are preserved as well as possible.

This makes every taxidermy piece unique. Even within the same animal species, the appearance, posture and finish can vary greatly.

From preparation to restoration

Not every taxidermy piece that comes to By Max needs to be made from new. Older taxidermy pieces can sometimes also be brought back into good condition through restoration.

During restoration, the condition of the taxidermy piece and the nature of any damage are assessed first. It is then determined which work is needed to make the animal look as good as possible again.

Want to know more about maintaining a taxidermy piece? Then also read our article How do you care for a taxidermy bird?.

Frequently asked questions about taxidermy

What does taxidermy mean?
Taxidermy is the preparation and preservation of animals while retaining their appearance and natural form as well as possible.

How is an animal mounted?
The process differs per animal species, but broadly consists of preparing the animal, preserving and preparing the skin, building up the anatomical form and carefully finishing the posture, eyes, fur or feathers and other details.

Is every animal mounted in the same way?
No. The method differs between birds, mammals and other animal groups, among others. The size, condition and desired posture of an animal also influence the method.

How long does taxidermy take?
This varies greatly per taxidermy piece. A small animal usually requires a different amount of work than a large or complex taxidermy piece.

Can an old taxidermy piece be restored?
In many cases, taxidermy can be restored. The possibilities depend on the condition and the nature of any damage.

Want to know more about taxidermy?

At By Max you will find an extensive collection of taxidermy and taxidermy animals. Each taxidermy piece is unique and photographed individually, so you can see exactly which specimen you are buying.

Curious about our way of working and the story behind By Max? Read more about By Max.

Do you have questions about taxidermy, a specific taxidermy piece or the options for restoration? Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help you further.

Anyone looking at taxidermy for the first time may be surprised by the price differences between different specimens. One taxidermy animal may cost a few hundred euros, while another specimen can cost thousands of euros. How can that difference be so great?

The price of a specimen is determined by far more than just the animal species. Factors such as size, rarity, quality, condition, level of difficulty and finish all play an important role. In this article, we explain which factors determine the value of taxidermy.

1. The animal species

Not every animal species is equally easy to obtain, and not every species is equally easy to prepare. This affects the final price.

In addition, specific legal rules apply to certain animal species. For protected species, for example, CITES documentation may be required. The origin and available documentation are therefore important parts of assessing a specimen.

2. Size and complexity

A large specimen generally requires more material, time and craftsmanship than a small one. But the shape of the animal also plays a role.

A simply mounted animal cannot be compared with a complex specimen in which multiple parts have to be accurately built up and finished. The more attention a specimen requires during the process, the more this can affect its final value.

3. The quality of the specimen

Two specimens of the same animal species can differ considerably in quality. The anatomy, posture, eyes, fur or feathers and finish together determine how natural a specimen looks.

It is often the small details that make a big difference. A high-quality finish can therefore make a specimen considerably more valuable than one where the finishing is less meticulous.

Would you like to know what to look out for yourself? Then also read our article How do you recognise a high-quality taxidermy animal?.

4. Rarity and availability

Some animals are much more common in the world of taxidermy than others. When a particular specimen is difficult to find, this can affect its value.

This is not just about the animal species. An unusually large specimen, a striking colour variant or an exceptionally beautiful finish can also be rarer than an average specimen.

5. Condition and age

The condition of a specimen is an important factor. An old specimen that has been well preserved for years can still be particularly valuable. Age therefore does not automatically mean that a specimen is worth less.

With older specimens, we look at factors including discolouration, damage, insect damage and the overall condition of the animal. A professionally carried out restoration can also bring an older specimen back into excellent condition.

Want to know more about restoration? Then also view our information about taxidermy restoration.

6. The craftsmanship behind taxidermy

A good specimen does not happen by itself. Taxidermy requires knowledge of anatomy, materials and techniques, as well as a great eye for detail.

An animal’s posture must be natural, the proportions must be correct, and parts such as the eyes, ears, legs, claws or beak must be carefully finished. It is precisely these details that ensure a specimen looks convincing and natural.

Practical tip from By Max

When comparing two specimens, do not look only at the animal species or the size. Pay particular attention to the details. The quality of the eyes, the anatomy, the fur or feathers and the overall finish can make a big difference to both the appearance and the value of a specimen.

7. Origin and documentation

In taxidermy, a clear and verifiable origin is important. For certain protected animal species, additional legal requirements apply and CITES documentation may be necessary.

Documentation not only says something about the legal status of a specimen, but can also be important for the origin and the story behind a special piece.

Would you like to know more about CITES and the rules surrounding taxidermy? Then read our article What is CITES and why is it important in taxidermy?.

8. The story and the appearance

Some specimens have something that is difficult to express in a fixed pricing formula. A special specimen can have a strong presence, an interesting history or simply be exceptionally beautiful.

That is one of the special aspects of taxidermy. It is not just about an animal being prepared, but about preserving a piece of nature and presenting it as a unique object.

Why two similar specimens can still differ greatly in price

When comparing different specimens, it is therefore important not to look only at the size or the animal species. A small difference in quality, condition, finish or availability can cause a large difference in value.

You can compare it with art or antiques. Two objects may appear similar at first glance, but still differ greatly in quality, rarity and appeal.

In taxidermy, the craftsmanship of the taxidermist also comes into play. The way in which an animal has been built up and finished largely determines how natural the final result will be.

What should you look out for when buying taxidermy?

When buying a taxidermy animal, it is wise to look beyond the price alone. Check the quality of the specimen, pay attention to its condition and, for protected species, ask for the required documentation.

When purchasing online, it is also important that you can clearly see which specimen you are buying. At By Max, every specimen is photographed individually. The specimen you see on the website is therefore also the specimen you will receive.

This allows you to assess the posture, condition and finish yourself before making a purchase.

Frequently asked questions

Why are some taxidermy animals worth thousands of euros?
There can be several reasons for this. The animal species, size, rarity, quality, condition, finish and availability all play a role.

Is a large specimen always more expensive than a small specimen?
Not necessarily. Size is one of the factors, but quality, rarity, condition and craftsmanship also influence the value.

Is old taxidermy worth more?
Not automatically. An old specimen can be particularly valuable, but age alone does not determine its value. Condition, quality, origin and appearance are at least as important.

Does CITES affect the price of taxidermy?
Additional rules apply to certain protected animal species and documentation is required. The legal status and verifiable origin are important parts of assessing a specimen.

How do I know whether an expensive specimen is worth its price?
Do not look only at the price. Assess the quality, anatomy, posture, details, condition, finish and origin. If in doubt, a specialist can help assess a specimen.

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The value of taxidermy lies in the whole

There is no simple formula with which you can calculate the value of every taxidermy animal. It is precisely the combination of animal species, quality, size, condition, rarity, craftsmanship and appearance that makes each specimen unique.

That is also what makes taxidermy so special. Every specimen has its own character and history. Ultimately, the value is not determined by one factor, but by the whole.

Curious about our collection? Then view our collection of taxidermy animals and taxidermy. Every specimen is photographed individually, so you can see exactly which one you are buying.

Do you have questions about a specific specimen, its quality, or its origin and documentation? Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help you assess a special piece.

A specimen that looks beautiful at first glance is not automatically a high-quality specimen. In taxidermy, the most important differences are often found in the details. The animal's posture, anatomy, eyes, finish and the condition of the fur or feathers all determine how natural and convincing a specimen looks.

But what exactly should you look for when you want to buy a taxidermy animal? In this article, we discuss seven points that help you assess the quality of a specimen.

1. A natural posture and anatomy

A good specimen should look as though the animal could genuinely stand or sit in that position. The proportions of the body, the position of the legs, the position of the head and the posture of the tail should feel natural.

It is precisely with an unnatural posture that incorrect anatomy quickly becomes noticeable. A well-prepared animal, on the other hand, has a posture that looks calm and natural.

2. The eyes make a big difference

The eyes are perhaps one of the most important details of a specimen. They largely determine the appearance and character of an animal.

Pay attention, for example, to the position and shape of the eyes and to the way the light falls on them. In a good specimen, the eyes form a natural part of the face and do not look 'empty' or unnatural.

3. Fur and feathers should fall naturally

With mammals, a well-groomed, naturally falling coat is important. The same applies to feathers in birds. Feathers should fit neatly together and follow the natural shape of the body.

With a bird, for example, pay attention to the wings, tail and breast. Feathers that stand unnaturally or are finished carelessly can greatly affect the appearance of an otherwise beautiful specimen.

4. Look at the small details

In high-quality taxidermy, it is often the small details that make the difference. Think of the feet, claws, beak, nose, ears and other delicate parts.

These parts should match the rest of the specimen and be finished in a natural way. The better the details are executed, the more convincing the whole piece becomes.

5. The finish should be well cared for

A specimen only becomes truly convincing when all parts come together as one whole. Therefore, do not only look at the animal itself, but also at the finishing around the specimen.

With an animal on a plinth or base, for example, you should look at the attachment and the proportion between the animal and the base. Any supports or fixing points should also not unnecessarily disrupt the appearance of the specimen.

6. Condition and any restorations

Not every old specimen is of poor quality. An older specimen can in fact be particularly beautiful and valuable, especially when it has been well preserved or professionally restored.

It is therefore important to distinguish between age and quality. Look for possible damage, discolouration, insect damage and the general condition of the animal.

A good restoration can also give an older specimen a second life. At By Max, we regularly come across specimens that can be brought back into excellent condition through restoration.

Practical tip from By Max

When we assess a specimen, we do not only look at the first impression. It is precisely the details that tell you a great deal about the quality. A beautiful posture and good appearance are important, but the finishing of the eyes, feet, feathers or fur, for example, ultimately makes the difference.

7. The quality of the whole piece

Ultimately, it is not about one individual part. A high-quality specimen is a whole in which anatomy, posture, material, finish and appearance are in balance with one another.

That is also why two specimens of the same animal species can differ greatly from each other. The quality of the work, the condition of the animal and the way the specimen has been finished together determine the final result.

What should you look for when buying taxidermy?

When you buy a taxidermy animal, it is wise to look beyond just the photograph or the price. View the specimen from different angles and pay attention to the details. When buying online, it is also reassuring when you can view photographs of the actual item.

At By Max, we photograph each specimen individually. The item you see on our website is therefore the specimen you will receive. This allows you to assess properly in advance what you are buying.

Frequently asked questions

Is an old specimen automatically of lower quality?
No. Age in itself says little about quality. A well-maintained or professionally restored old specimen can still be exceptionally beautiful.

What is the best thing to look at with a taxidermy bird?
Pay particular attention to the natural posture, the position of the eyes, the fit and lay of the feathers, and the finish of the feet and beak.

Can you assess the quality of taxidermy from photographs?
Photographs give a good first impression, but not all details are visible in photographs. Multiple photographs from different angles help you assess a specimen properly.

Can a damaged specimen still be restored?
That is often possible, but it depends on the nature and extent of the damage. During restoration, the condition of the skin, fur or feathers and the construction of the specimen are assessed, among other things.

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Want to know more about taxidermy?

At By Max you will find an extensive collection of taxidermy and taxidermy animals. Each specimen is photographed individually, so you can see exactly which item you are buying.

In addition to taxidermy animals, we also have a collection of skulls and other natural decoration. Would you like to know more about By Max, our way of working and our vision of taxidermy? Then also view our information about By Max.

Do you have questions about the quality, condition or restoration possibilities of a specimen? Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help you assess a special piece.

Anyone who delves into taxidermy or taxidermy animals will sooner or later come across the term CITES . Especially for protected animal species, this international regulation is of great importance. But what exactly does CITES mean and why is it important when you buy a taxidermy animal?

In this article, we explain what CITES is, why it exists and what it means for collectors, enthusiasts and buyers of taxidermy.

What does CITES mean?

CITES stands for Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. It is an international treaty that ensures trade in endangered animal and plant species takes place in a responsible manner. More than 180 countries have now joined this treaty.

The aim of CITES is not to ban all trade, but to ensure that protected species do not come under further pressure as a result of international trade.

Why is CITES important in taxidermy?

Not every taxidermy animal falls under CITES regulations. For some species, no additional rules apply, while for other species official documents or certificates are required.

When a specimen falls under CITES regulations, its origin must be demonstrable and the correct documents must be present. This allows a specimen to be legally sold, bought or – where permitted – traded internationally.

How does By Max handle this?

At By Max, we consider responsible business practices to be at least as important as craftsmanship. That is why we carefully check whether a specimen may be sold in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. When a CITES certificate is required, we ensure that this documentation is present.

On our About us page you can read more about our vision on legal and responsible taxidermy and why we attach great importance to transparency.

Frequently asked questions

Are all taxidermy animals subject to CITES?
No. Only some animal species fall under CITES regulations. For many specimens, no additional documents are required.

Will I receive CITES documents?
When this is legally required, the necessary documents are supplied with the specimen.

Can I take a CITES specimen abroad?
That depends on the animal species and the country of destination. Transport within the EU is always permitted, but outside the EU this is not always the case. Always check the applicable regulations in advance.

Want to know more?

Are you curious about our collection? Then view our full range of taxidermy animals or discover our collection of skulls and skeletons. Each specimen on our website is unique and photographed individually.

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Do you have questions about CITES, documentation or the origin of a specimen? Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to advise you and provide a transparent explanation of the applicable regulations.

A high-quality taxidermy bird can remain beautiful for decades. Proper care is important, but fortunately it is not complicated. At By Max, we regularly receive questions about cleaning taxidermy, the effect of sunlight and how best to protect a specimen from dust and insects. With a few simple points of attention, a specimen will remain in excellent condition for years.

The right place makes all the difference

Where a taxidermy bird is placed largely determines how well it retains its appearance. For this reason, avoid direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause feathers to slowly discolour. Birds with dark or bright colours are particularly sensitive to this.

Damp rooms are also less suitable. A bathroom, conservatory or unheated shed often has significant fluctuations in temperature and humidity. A stable indoor climate is the best environment for taxidermy.

Clean with care

Removing dust is simple, as long as it is done carefully. Use a soft feather duster or a clean brush with soft bristles and always work in the direction of the feathers. This helps prevent damage.

Never use water, cleaning products or a damp cloth. These can permanently damage the feathers and skin.

Practical tip from By Max

During restorations, we see that most damage is not caused by age, but by years of direct sunlight. A good place in the home is often more important than people think.

Check for insects occasionally

Although modern taxidermy is professionally treated, moths and other insects remain something to watch out for. Therefore, check a specimen occasionally for small signs of damage or loose feathers. By spotting problems early, any damage can often be limited.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I dust a taxidermy bird?
In a normal living space, careful dusting once a month is usually sufficient.

Can a taxidermy bird be placed in direct sunlight?
We do not recommend this. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause feathers to slowly discolour.

Can I hang a specimen outside?
No. Rain, moisture, temperature fluctuations and UV radiation will quickly cause a specimen to deteriorate.

How long does a taxidermy bird last?
With proper care, a high-quality specimen can remain beautiful for decades.

Can a damaged specimen be restored?
In many cases, yes. Depending on the damage, feathers can be restored, parts can be touched up or a specimen can be brought back into excellent condition.

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Finally

A taxidermy bird requires little maintenance, as long as it is placed in the right location and is carefully dusted from time to time. With these simple tips, a specimen will remain an eye-catcher in the home for years.

Are you looking for a special taxidermy bird? Then take a look at our collection of taxidermy birds. Every bird on our website is unique; you will always receive the exact specimen shown in the photos.