Taxidermists preserve and prepare animal skins and parts to create lifelike animal replicas. Taxidermists prepare the underpadding and mounting to which the skin will be attached, model the structure to resemble the animal's body, and then attach appropriate coverings, such as skin, fur, or feathers. They may add details, such as eyes or teeth, to make a more realistic representation. The animals they mount or stuff may be for private or public display. Museums frequently display creations from taxidermists to exhibit rare, exotic, or extinct animals. Hunters also use taxidermists' services to mount fishing and hunting trophies for display.

Salary Range

Below $25,000 to $75,000

Minimum Education Level

Some Postsecondary Training

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average

Personality Traits

Artistic

Creative

Hands On

Career Ladder

Taxidermy Shop Owner

Taxidermist

Apprentice or Trainee