How To Care For Your At-Home Taxidermy Collection
An at-home natural history collection of birds and other fascinating critters offers a captivating glimpse into the diverse wonders of the natural world, effectively bringing a striking slice of nature right into the heart of your living space. However, to ensure that your meticulously curated collection stands the test of time and retains its allure, regular maintenance is absolutely essential. Proper care not only preserves the beauty and intricacy of your specimens but also protects their integrity, allowing future generations to appreciate both the artistry and scientific significance of your remarkable collection. From gentle dusting and humidity control to appropriate ambient lighting, each careful step is vital in safeguarding the lasting legacy of your treasured natural history artifacts.
“Phidippus clarus”; photo by Sam Droege in 2020. Image retrieved from Flickr.
“Dinagapostemon sicheli”; photo by Sam Droege in 2020. Image retrieved from Flickr.
“Leaf hopper”; photo by Sam Droege in 2020. Image retrieved from Flickr.
Proper Storage and Conditions
Taxidermy, just like all pieces in any art collection, needs to be stored in the proper conditions to make sure it lasts longer than a lifetime. Taxidermy specimens require stable environmental conditions to maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. Ideally, they should be kept in a cool, dry environment with temperatures ranging between 65-75°F and relative humidity levels around 40-50%. Excessive heat or moisture can cause deterioration, mold growth, or insect infestation. Additionally, direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent fading and material degradation. Regular dusting with a soft brush and periodic inspections ensure early detection of any damage or pest issues.
Glass or acrylic domes are highly effective at preventing dust and pests from reaching delicate taxidermy specimens, creating a protective barrier that maintains the integrity and cleanliness of each piece. Acrylic domes, in particular, often come with built-in UV protection, which plays a crucial role in preserving the vivid colors and natural appearance of specimens by minimizing harmful ultraviolet light exposure. This combination of physical protection and UV filtering ensures that your taxidermy remains in pristine condition, making glass and acrylic domes an essential choice for long-term display and preservation.
During transport or frequent movement as part of an educational display, taxidermy specimens should be stored in custom-fitted, padded crates or containers to minimize vibration and impact. Using acid-free tissue paper or foam padding helps protect delicate features like fur and feathers. It is also important to keep them away from extreme temperature fluctuations and excessive moisture during transit to prevent damage. Secure placement within the vehicle or display setup reduces the risk of shifting or collisions that could harm the specimens.
“Big-game trophy heads”; photo by Carol M. Highsmith in 2022. Image retrieved from the Library of Congress.
Check Your Pieces Regularly
Taxidermy collections should be carefully inspected at least twice a year to ensure their proper preservation and long-term longevity. During these routine check-ups, it is important to meticulously examine each individual piece for any signs of pest activity, such as the presence of small holes, frass (insect droppings), webbing, or shed exoskeletons, all of which are clear indicators of dermestid beetles or moth infestations. Additionally, pay close attention to any discoloration, warping, or mold growth, as these conditions often signal exposure to excess moisture or other improper environmental factors. Maintaining a stable environment with consistently controlled temperature and humidity levels, while promptly addressing any detected issues, is absolutely essential to effectively protecting your valuable taxidermy investment.
Learn How to Freezer Cycle
The easiest and most effective way to eliminate pests from taxidermy and oddities collections, including bugs and larvae that often accompany animal specimens, is to use a freezer cycling method. First, place the items securely in sealed plastic bags to prevent moisture damage. Then, cycle the pieces through the freezer by keeping them inside for a minimum of five days, removing them for at least one full day to allow any remaining pests to become active, and then returning them to the freezer for another five days. This process ensures that both adult insects and their eggs are thoroughly eradicated without exposing your collection to harmful chemicals, preserving the integrity and quality of your valuable specimens.
Freezer cycling should be conducted at least once a year to prevent pest infestations in your taxidermy collection, with more frequent cycles recommended for those living in areas prone to pests. Any new specimens must undergo freezer cycling before integration to eliminate potential hitchhiking insects acquired during transport. While displays housed under glass are less vulnerable and may require less frequent freezer cycling, it remains essential to inspect these specimens regularly for signs of pest activity during routine collection maintenance. Consistent monitoring and preventive measures are key to preserving the integrity and longevity of your taxidermy pieces.
“Interior of the Drawing Lodge, Mar Lodge”; photo from 1863. Image retrieved from National Galleries of Scotland.
Cleaning
Cleaning taxidermy requires careful attention to preserve the integrity of each piece. For acrylic cases, use an acrylic cleaner along with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratches. Glass cases should be cleaned with a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth for optimal clarity. Open-air mounts, which are not enclosed in a case, benefit from gentle dusting with a soft paintbrush or feather, always following the direction of the feathers to prevent damage, while a wet cotton-tipped applicator can be used to delicately clean the eyes. It’s important to consult your taxidermist for specific advice regarding the cleaning of the base, as the material used can vary. For mammals, a hair dryer set to the lowest speed on a cool setting effectively removes dust from fur, and a wet cotton-tipped applicator can also be used for eye cleaning, ensuring the specimen remains pristine.
Hire a Taxidermist To Restore Your Mounts
If you have an old taxidermy mount that requires cleaning or detailed restoration, it’s important to consult a professional taxidermist. Attempting to clean or repair delicate specimens without expertise can lead to damage or irreversible loss of detail. A skilled taxidermist can assess the condition of your mount, recommend appropriate cleaning methods, and provide restoration services to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. Whether your mount needs minor maintenance or a complete overhaul, reaching out to a specialist ensures your piece is handled with care and professionalism. Most taxidermists share a genuine passion for the preservation and appreciation of their work, and as such, they want to see taxidermy pieces well-cared for and maintained over time. If you reach out with questions about how to properly care for your taxidermy collection, you will usually find them more than willing and happy to offer guidance. Their goal is to help ensure your specimens remain in excellent condition, preserving both the artistry and natural beauty embedded in each piece.
“Mrs. Maxwell’s Collection”; Centennial Exhibit of 1876. Image retrieved from the Library Company of Philadelphia.
Caring for a taxidermy and oddities collection is essential to ensure that your pieces endure well beyond your lifetime. While proper preservation techniques provide a strong foundation, they can only protect the collection to a certain extent. It is through consistent and attentive maintenance that these natural artworks remain vibrant and intact. Ultimately, dedicated care is the key to preserving the beauty and scientific value of your collection for generations to come, where everyone can appreciate and learn from these unique specimens.
