Are Taxidermists Self Employed and How to Become One?
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Are Taxidermists Self Employed and How to Become One?

Date: 08/22/2024 | Written By: Aneeb Ahmad
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The art and science of taxidermy involves creating lifelike reproductions of animals' skins to preserve them. It entails removing and preparing the skin with great care, making a form that closely resembles the animal's body, and then carefully reattaching the skin to the form. To replicate the creature's natural look and stance, generally for exhibition in museums, residences, or educational settings, taxidermists need to have a thorough understanding of animal anatomy in addition to creative talent and patience. In this blog post, we’ll discuss weather taxidermists are self -employed, what they do, job opportunities, how to get into it and more!

 Can You Taxidermy People?

 

One big question people often ask is if you can taxidermy people?

The quick answer? Nope! 

Taxidermy is just for animals, not humans. Preserving human bodies involves embalming and other funeral practices. There are legal, ethical, and cultural reasons that stop us from taxidermy people. Instead, taxidermy shines a light on the beauty of animals, from the familiar ones to more exotic wildlife.

Job Opportunities in Taxidermy

Self employment opportunities are common, but there are other paths taxidermists can take: 

  • Museums & Educational Institutions: They might work in museums or centers where they help preserve animals for displays that teach people.

  • Wildlife & Conservation Organizations: These organizations could hire them to prepare specimens for research and exhibitions as part of conservation efforts.

  • Commercial Businesses: Some taxidermists find jobs with businesses serving hunters and fishers by providing mounting and preserving services.

  •  Freelance & Contract Work: These platforms offer part time jobs near me! They can take contract jobs & work with various people and organizations.

How Much Does a Taxidermist Make in a Year?

The annual revenue of a taxidermist can vary greatly depending on factors, including location, expertise, reputation, and complexity of projects they work on. Here is a more thorough explanation of the factors that affect a taxidermist's pay:

Experienced: 

  • Beginning Taxidermists: Individuals just starting out or with a few years of experience usually make less money. As their clientele and skill set grow, they may be able to earn between $25,000 and $35,000 a year.

  • Mid-Level Taxidermists: As they advance in skill and reputation, individuals with a moderate level of experience (five to ten years) frequently see an increase in pay to the range of $35,000 to $50,000 annually.

  • Experienced Taxidermists: Taxidermists with over ten years of expertise can charge more for their services. Their yearly salary might range from $50,000 to $75,000, contingent on their work quality and reputation. 

A taxidermist salary can differ in terms of location, experience, and the difficulty of the job. While those with national or international recognition may command larger fees, local taxidermists typically make more money. Specializations, location, and regional variations can all affect income. Owners can make over $75,000 a year, but contract workers or freelancers might charge more.

 How to Get into Taxidermy 

Breaking into taxidermy needs some education, training, & hands-on experience. Here are the steps you need to get into a taxidermy profession or job:


1. Research & Self-Education: Start by reading books or watching tutorials about taxidermy. Knowing the basics & history is super important!  

2. Formal Education: Sign up for courses or workshops led by professional taxidermists or schools. These programs offer hands-on learning that'll teach you essential skills.

3. Apprenticeship: Work with an experienced taxidermist as an apprentice! This real-life experience is priceless & helps you learn advanced techniques & business sides of things too. 

4. Certification: Think about getting certified from places like the National Taxidermists Association (NTA). Certification boosts your credibility and helps your career.

5. Build a Portfolio: Keep track of your work & create a portfolio that showcases your best projects! A strong portfolio will help attract clients. There are also so many websites, where you can showcase your projects for free.

6. Start Your Business: After gaining skills & experience, it’s time to start your own business or join established studios! 

 Is Taxidermy Hard?

Taxidermy can be a tough job requiring skill, patience, & lots of attention to detail! Here are just some issues that crop up for taxidermists:

  • Complex Processes: It takes many steps like skinning, tanning, mounting, & finishing. Each part needs to be done carefully to get lifelike results!

  • Artistic Skills: Great taxidermists have sharp eyes for detail & lots of artistry! Making realistic mounts is truly both Science & Art.

  • Technical Knowledge: It’s important to know animal anatomy along with preservation techniques and materials used in taxidermy.

  • Physical Demands: The task often demands physical effort, manual dexterity, strength, & stamina are crucial!

  • Business Savvy: If you're running your own business as a taxidermist, you'll need marketing skills along with customer service savvy too! 

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Even with these challenges, many find taxidermy very rewarding. Creating lifelike animal representations and preserving their beauty for future generations feels truly amazing.

 Are Taxidermists Self Employed?

A lot of taxidermists are self-employed—they run their own businesses which gives them control over their schedules! They can choose their projects & form their personal brand within the community. 

What skills are needed for taxidermy?

You need a bunch of skills including:

  •  Artistic Talent: To make animals look realistic.

  •  Manual Dexterity: Using your hands & tools skillfully for delicate tasks.

  •  Anatomical Knowledge: Knowing animal anatomy helps create accurate forms.

  •  Attention to Detail: Being precise while preserving and mounting specimens is key.

  •  Patience & Perseverance: You'll need to spend lots of time on detailed work!

The Taxidermy's Creative Aspect 

Taxidermy is an artistic medium in addition to a means of preservation. Professional taxidermists produce lifelike animal reproductions by fusing their artistic abilities with scientific knowledge. To construct a realistic and artistically beautiful mount, it is necessary to comprehend the anatomy, posture, and natural environment of the animal. What distinguishes taxidermy as a distinct and esteemed trade from more straightforward preservation methods is its artistic component.

Conclusion 

Taxidermy is a demanding career that combines artistic and scientific skills, offering a fulfilling career for those passionate about protecting natural beauty. Understanding these components can provide valuable insights into this fascinating profession, whether you're pursuing a career in taxidermy or just curious about the technique.