🦌 How to Care for Taxidermy: A Complete Guide for Long-Term Preservation

Taxidermy can last for generations when it’s properly cared for. Whether you own a vintage mount, a modern piece, or an inherited family specimen, good maintenance protects it from dust, pests, humidity, and fading. This guide covers the essential steps for preserving taxidermy safely and effectively, no matter where you live.

🌍 Environment: The Most Important Factor

The environment you keep your taxidermy in determines how long it will last. All mounts benefit from:

Stable temperature — avoid extreme heat or cold

Low humidity — ideally between 40–55%

Indirect light — sunlight fades fur, feathers, and skin

Good airflow — prevents moisture build-up

Avoid placing taxidermy near radiators, fireplaces, windows, or damp basements.

🧹 Regular Cleaning

Dusting

Dust is the biggest enemy of taxidermy. Remove it gently using:

A soft paintbrush

A microfibre cloth

A compressed air bulb (not canned air)

Brush in the direction of the fur or feathers. Never scrub or use water.

Glass Eyes

Clean eyes with:

A cotton swab

A tiny amount of glass cleaner applied to the swab, not the mount

Avoid touching surrounding skin or fur.

🐜 Pest Prevention

Taxidermy is vulnerable to insects such as dermestid beetles and moths. Signs of infestation include loose hair, fine dust, or small holes.

Prevent pests by:

Keeping the room clean and vacuumed

Inspecting mounts monthly

Using insect traps nearby (not on the mount)

Storing mounts away from wool, feathers, or natural fibres that attract pests

If you see active insects, isolate the mount and consult a professional conservator.

💨 Humidity and Temperature Control

Taxidermy materials — skin, hide paste, wood, and adhesives — react to moisture and heat.

High humidity causes mould, odour, and loose fur

Low humidity causes cracking and dryness

Heat can warp forms and loosen glue

Use a dehumidifier or humidifier as needed to keep conditions stable.

🧴 Handling and Moving Taxidermy

Taxidermy is more fragile than it looks.

Lift mounts from the base, not the body

Avoid touching fur or feathers with bare hands

Support antlers or horns when moving large pieces

Transport in padded boxes if relocating

Never pick up a mount by the neck, legs, or head.

🧽 Deep Cleaning (When Needed)

For older or heavily soiled mounts:

Use a specialised taxidermy cleaner sparingly

Test on a hidden area first

Avoid water-based cleaners on skin or leather

If the mount is fragile, shedding, or damaged, contact a professional taxidermy restorer.

🧊 Long-Term Storage

If you need to store taxidermy:

Wrap loosely in breathable cotton sheets

Avoid plastic bags (they trap moisture)

Store in a cool, dry, dark place

Check periodically for pests or mould

For long-term archival storage, acid-free materials are ideal.

🛠 When to Call a Professional

Seek expert help if you notice:

Persistent shedding

Cracks in the skin

Strong odours

Mould growth

Insect activity

Structural damage

A trained conservator can stabilise and restore mounts safely.