How Much Does Taxidermy Cost?
Taxidermy prices can vary anywhere between $2500 and $15000 based on an estimate of five African plains game animals. The reason for the variance in pricing is because there are several factors that could influence the cost from the type of animal processed, the pose chosen, through to what extra items make up your order.
In this article we’ll take you through the different factors that will affect your taxidermy pricing and by the end of the article you’ll have a good understanding of what to consider when budgeting for your next taxidermy order. For the purpose of this article, we have not included shipping costs as they do not directly affect the price of the taxidermy process.
Collection
Many taxidermists will charge a collection fee for this service which is often not mentioned when quoting their clients. At Splitting Image Taxidermy, we offer value to you and your outfitter by collecting your trophies anywhere in South Africa at no additional cost.
Dip and Pack
Dip and pack is the process of cleaning, treating and preserving all the parts of your trophy required to get it ready for the next step which would be either shipping it home for later processing or going to your chosen taxidermist to complete the rest of the project. The cost involved in this process is standardised, no matter which parts of the trophy are processed.
Mount Options
One of the factors that affects the price of taxidermy the most is the type of trophy mount you choose. We’ve outlined the most common mount options below as well as different factors to consider when selecting your mount type that will affect the cost.
Full mount
A full mount or life size taxidermy mount is when the full skin of your trophy is utilised in the mount. This is the most creative option for mounting your prized trophy, but it does take up more space and has a higher cost factor. Some of the options to consider when choosing a full mount are:
• Free standing
• On a stand either with or without a habitat
• On a base with or without habitat
• A custom mount including options for open or closed mouth
Shoulder mount
A shoulder mount is one of the most common mount types in taxidermy. When choosing a shoulder mount, you’ll need to consider the different poses and direction options available.
Wall pedestal mount
A wall pedestal mount is an off-centre shoulder mount that presents your trophy hanging on the wall with one shoulder more exposed than the other. Again, you will need to choose from the different pose and direction options available.
Pedestal mount
A pedestal mount is mounted in the same way as a shoulder mount or wall pedestal mount, but the animal is presented on a pedestal base at ground level. When choosing a pedestal mount the cost will be affected by the size, material and design of the pedestal base. These can be customised to your choice.
European / skull / shield mount
The European mount, also known as a skull mount or shield mount is when a bleached skull and optionally the horns (if applicable) are mounted onto a shield to be hung on a wall. Custom designs, materials and sizes for the shield are available, which will affect the cost.
Skull bleach
A skull bleach is the cleaning and bleaching of a skull, allowing it to be displayed on a wall, table, or shelf. By using only the skull, you have the option to tan your animal’s hide to be used as a rug or to be manufactured into curio items.
Documentation & Crating
A cost that often isn’t mentioned in the price of taxidermy is the cost of any documentation or permits required to get your trophy to you. These costs are greatly influenced by the type of animal and final destination of the trophy as each country has their own requirements for documentation and permits. Another cost to consider is crating. Crating is the process of packaging your trophy for export. Shipping rates are calculated based on volumetric weight so having your trophy crated in the most efficient manner will help to save costs related to shipping. At Splitting Image Taxidermy, we manufacture each crate to your specific needs to ensure your trophies are packaged safely and in the most efficient manner possible.
Extras
Another factor to consider that will affect your taxidermy price is whether or not you want any processing done with the remainder of your trophy. For example, backskins and flatskins can be used to make rugs, luggage, or furniture items.
We hope this article gives you some valuable insight and considerations around the factors that influence taxidermy pricing. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
