What Is Ethical Taxidermy?

Aug 6, 2021 | Taxidermy

deer-mount

Taxidermists often have a great love and respect for the animals that they work so hard to preserve. For this reason, many people who are interested in taxidermy are also passionate about conservation efforts and animal rights. When you hear that a specimen has been ethically sourced, this usually means that the animal died of natural causes and was not trophy hunted for sport.

Finding Ethically Sourced Specimens

There are tons of ways to acquire specimens for taxidermy without ever having to kill an animal specifically for that purpose. Using animals that have been killed on the road is one of the most common sources of specimens for ethical taxidermists. Fallen animals like deer, birds, and foxes aren’t uncommon to find in rural areas. Using roadkill for taxidermy purposes is a great sustainable practice that ensures the body won’t go to waste, and it can prevent scavenger animals from also being killed on a busy road.

Another way to ethically source specimens is to collect unused animal byproducts from farmers and hunters. This sustainable sourcing method is a great way to use and honor the entire body of an animal that has been killed for the purpose of food.

If there are wildlife preserves or rescues in your area, this could also be a good source for specimens. Often, animals will die at wildlife rescues due to natural causes, such as old age, illness, or injury. Taxidermists can ask local veterinarians or wildlife organizations about the best ways to obtain ethically sourced specimens in the area.

Who Is Practicing Ethical Taxidermy?

With eco-friendly lifestyles and sustainable practices becoming more popular, ethical taxidermy is on the rise. People who practice taxidermy in an ethical way tend to be interested in the hobby for artistic or educational purposes rather than as a way to display trophies and mounts.

The Benefits of Ethical Sourcing in Taxidermy

Ethical taxidermy is a good solution for people who are passionate about animals and conservation efforts. By obtaining specimens from sustainable sources, you ensure that the entire body of this creature can be properly used and honored. A major goal of ethical sourcing is to reduce needless waste.

Become a Better Ethical Taxidermist

To improve your taxidermy skills, it’s important to use the best tools and techniques. Dermestid beetles, which eat flesh, are a great method to use when preparing skulls. If you’re interested in trying taxidermy beetles, contact Kodiak Bones & Bugs Taxidermy today at kodiakbonesandbugs@gmail.com or 907-942-2847.