Taxidermy Care Tips: How to Preserve Your Wildlife Mounts for Years to Come

Your wildlife mounts are more than just trophies—they're lasting memories of your outdoor adventures and achievements. Whether it's a whitetail deer shoulder mount or a majestic black bear, proper care is essential to ensure that your mounts remain in pristine condition for years to come. At Kingston Wildlife Works, we pride ourselves on crafting competition-quality mounts, and we want to help you protect your investment. Here are some expert tips for caring for your taxidermy pieces:

1. Control the Environment: Temperature and Humidity Matter

Taxidermy mounts are sensitive to environmental changes, especially temperature and humidity. High humidity can cause mold growth, while fluctuating temperatures can lead to cracks and fading.

• Ideal Humidity Levels: Keep the humidity between 40-55%. Use a dehumidifier in humid climates like South Carolina to prevent excess moisture.

• Temperature: Maintain a stable, cool temperature—extreme heat can dry out your mounts, causing cracking and shrinkage.

2. Keep Away from Direct Sunlight

Sunlight can cause significant damage to your mounts over time, leading to faded colors and brittle fur or feathers. Place your taxidermy in a well-lit but shaded part of the room, away from windows or direct sunlight. If the mount is near a window, consider UV-blocking curtains or shades to minimize exposure.

3. Dust Regularly, But Gently

Dust can accumulate on your mount, dulling its appearance. Regular dusting is important to keep it looking lifelike, but it's crucial to be gentle:

• Use a Feather Duster: Soft feather dusters or microfiber cloths work well for gently removing surface dust.

• Compressed Air for Hard-to-Reach Spots: For intricate areas like the antlers, ears, or facial features, use a can of compressed air to blow away dust without damaging the mount.

4. Handle with Care

It’s tempting to admire your mounts up close, but always handle them with care to avoid damage:

• Avoid Touching Fur or Feathers: Oils from your skin can transfer to the mount, leading to discoloration and degradation over time.

• Use Gloves When Moving: If you need to move or adjust a mount, wear gloves to prevent oil transfer and grip it by the base or support structure, not by delicate areas like ears or antlers.

5. Protect Against Pests

Insects such as moths, beetles, and mites are a common threat to taxidermy. They can chew through fur, feathers, and hide, causing irreversible damage. Here’s how to protect your mounts from pests:

• Inspect Regularly: Check your mounts every few months for any signs of insects, such as small holes in the hide or fur.

• Preventative Sprays: Use insect-repellent sprays specifically designed for taxidermy to ward off pests. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions to avoid damaging the mount.

• Proper Storage: If you’re storing mounts for an extended period, make sure they’re in a cool, dry space that’s free from pests.

6. Clean Stains Carefully

Accidents happen—if your mount gets stained, whether from smoke, food, or dirt, cleaning it promptly is crucial.

• Mild Soap and Water: For small stains, use a soft cloth dampened with water and a little mild soap to gently clean the affected area.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach, harsh cleaners, or strong solvents, as these can damage the hide and discolor the fur or feathers.

• Seek Professional Help: For severe stains or damage, it’s best to contact a professional taxidermist for repairs.

7. Annual Professional Inspections

Even with the best care, your mounts can benefit from an annual inspection by a professional taxidermist. At Kingston Wildlife Works, we offer cleaning and maintenance services to help ensure your mounts remain in top condition. This is especially important for older mounts, which may need repairs or touch-ups over time.

Final Thoughts With proper care and attention, your taxidermy mounts can remain vibrant and lifelike for decades. By controlling their environment, keeping them clean, and protecting them from pests, you can ensure that these cherished pieces continue to tell the story of your outdoor adventures for years to come.

At Kingston Wildlife Works, we’re here to help you preserve your wildlife memories with expert craftsmanship and ongoing support. If you have any questions about caring for your mounts or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us!