Taxidermy

Overview

Taxidermy programs include topics such as:

• Building frames and forms to substitute for animal skulls and skeletons
• Techniques for sculpting clay heads or bodies
• Finishing models with painting and preservation
• Preservation of animal components, such as skin, feathers, and fur

Taxidermists consider color, texture, expression, and muscle movement. They combine crafts such as carpentry, woodworking, tanning, and molding and casting in their work. They use the artistic talent required for drawing, sculpting, and painting.

Concentrations

In some programs, students may be able to specialize in a particular kind of animal, such as fish, birds, snakes, or mammals. Some students specialize by size or type of mammal.

Schools

A few career and technical schools and some community colleges offer certificate programs in taxidermy. A certificate program in taxidermy can range in length from a few weeks to up to a full year.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

• Animal Physiology
• Animal Sciences, General
• Crafts
• Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
• Museum Studies
• Sculpture

Related Careers

Careers to Consider

• Fine Artists
• Fish and Game Wardens
• Museum Technicians and Conservators
• Veterinary Assistants

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by completing your high school diploma or equivalent and getting some background in arts and crafts.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Animal Science
• Art
• Business Math
• Carpentry
• Drawing and Painting
• Sculpture

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

In this program, you typically take courses such as the following:

• Airbrush Painting and Paint Mixing
• Base and Habitat Making
• Basic Anatomy
• Birds and Fish
• Body Making
• Displays
• Dry-Preserving
• Form Construction and Alteration
• Game Heads
• Horns and Antlers
• Introduction to Wildlife and Fish
• Mammals
• Mounting
• Painting and Finish Work
• Pattern Making
• Reference Filing
• Rugs
• Salting and Tanning
• Skinning
• Snakes
• Taxidermy Business Procedures
• Taxidermy Laws and Regulations

Some programs incorporate a practicum or internship into their curriculums. An internship often functions as a kind of apprenticeship. You get the opportunity to work under the guidance and direct supervision of an experienced taxidermist. Moreover, you can choose to work with someone who specializes in the type of taxidermy that most interests you or whose work you really admire.

Things to Know

You need to buy your own tools and supplies. Students typically work on specimens provided by the school. Check with schools to find out specific information on what they provide and what they require.

Many states require you to have a permit before you can practice taxidermy. You also need a license from the US Fish and Wildlife Service if you want to work with migratory birds.

Schools

No information available.