Taxidermy, << TAK suh `dur` mee, >> is a technique for preserving animals and showing them as they looked when they were alive. The word taxidermy comes from Greek words meaning arrangement and skin. Museums of natural history often exhibit birds, fish, antelope, tigers, bears, and other wild animals in their natural settings.
Process of mounting.
The taxidermist first takes accurate measurements of the anatomy of the dead animal. The animal’s skin is carefully removed and treated with a preservative, such as arsenical soap. The taxidermist then makes a drawing of the animal’s body structure, including the muscles, bones, and depressions. This copy becomes a guide. Next, the taxidermist makes a framework out of wood and metal. The skeleton of the animal also may be used. The taxidermist then adds clay to the framework and sculpts the animal’s anatomy. The clay model is used to make a thin, hollow casting of plaster, papier-mâché, burlap, and sometimes mesh wire. This casting must correspond accurately with the figure of the animal. Finally, the taxidermist places the skin on the casting and sews and glues it together. Skins of large, heavy animals must be tanned before being mounted on the casting.
Taxidermists must add many other body features and use special materials to make the eyes and tongue. Taxidermists may use painted hollow globes instead of glass eyes to give the preserved animal a natural expression. They must also shape the ears.
Some museums use a freeze-drying technique to preserve specimens. This method is used mainly for small animals, such as songbirds and squirrels.
Careers in taxidermy.
Taxidermy is a complicated art. It requires a knowledge of anatomy, natural history, drawing, sculpture, mechanics, tanning, and dyeing. Many museums have taxidermists on their staffs. Some museums hire commercial studios to mount their specimens. Most taxidermists learn their skills at a technical institute or by training under an experienced taxidermist. Further information about careers in taxidermy can be obtained from the National Taxidermists Association in Cleveland, Ohio.
