For some, it is an art; for others, not so much. However, displaying the preserved skin of an animal is a preference shared by many people worldwide.
You can better understand this through our collection of free taxidermy books. Taxidermy is not a very common practice, but it has true followers in various parts of the world. It is done for artistic purposes or as a hobby.
Taxidermy has evolved over time, and those who practice it have worked to improve the techniques of preservation, enabling the study and conservation of species.
Most taxidermists work with mammalian animals, and the preserved bodies are exhibited in museums or private collections. The word “taxidermy” is derived from the Greek words “taxis,” meaning “arrangement,” and “dermis,” meaning “skin.” Etymologically, it refers to arranging the skin, in this case, that of the animal.
A taxidermist must possess certain knowledge, such as dissection, skin treatment, sculpture, and anatomy. We invite you to take a look at our selection of over 15 free taxidermy books and articles in PDF format.
Taxidermy Books
#1 Guide to taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 316 pages
Guide to taxidermy por Chas. K. Reed and Chester A. Reed provides detailed instructions on taxidermy techniques, particularly for birds and small mammals. This book offers a comprehensive overview, ideal for those seeking traditional methods and historical context.
#2 The art of Taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 295 pages
The art of Taxidermy por John Rowley is a detailed guide to the traditional methods and techniques used in the late 19th century. Discover the foundations of this craft with clear explanations of collecting, preparing, and mounting specimens.
#3 Maine Taxidermy Information Booklet
Extension: PDF | 15 pages
Maine Taxidermy Information Booklet by Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is a valuable guide for taxidermists in Maine, outlining licensing requirements and regulations. It's a comprehensive resource for understanding legal aspects and best practices in taxidermy within the state.
#4 Death and Taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 36 pages
Death and Taxidermy by Caitlin Monroe explores the cultural discomfort surrounding taxidermy in modern Western society, linking it to anxieties about death. It examines the museum's role and offers a unique perspective on the connection between taxidermy, death, and our relationship with animals.
#5 Through the eyes of a taxidermist
Extension: PDF | 86 pages
Through the eyes of a taxidermist por Eva Langstraat explores the values and perceptions of taxidermists across scientific, classic, and artistic disciplines. It offers a unique glimpse into the motivations and ethical considerations of professionals shaping this evolving craft.
#6 Animals, artists and authenticity – Exploring the spectrum of museum taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 82 pages
Animals, artists and authenticity - Exploring the spectrum of museum taxidermy por Elizabeth Andres dives into the intricate relationship between taxidermy, art, and science, challenging traditional museum classifications. Discover how taxidermy serves as a lens to examine our evolving perception of nature and its representation.
#7 The Curious Occurrence of Taxidermy in Contemporary Art
Extension: PDF | 39 pages
The Curious Occurrence of Taxidermy in Contemporary Art por Jo-Ann Conklin delves into the intriguing presence of taxidermy within the contemporary art world. This exhibition catalogue explores how artists use taxidermy to explore themes of death, hybridity, and the complex relationship between humans and animals, offering a thought-provoking persp...
#8 From Mortal to Immortal – The Significance of Taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 12 pages
From Mortal to Immortal - The Significance of Taxidermy por Errol Fuller, explores the art and science of taxidermy, highlighting its historical significance and diverse applications. It unveils the profound emotional and intellectual connections humans have with this practice.
#9 The Art of Taxidermy – A Glance into the Natural World (Article)
Extension: PDF | 10 pages
The Art of Taxidermy - A Glance into the Natural World (Article) por Colbey Derwin. It explores the history and cultural significance of taxidermy, particularly in museum settings. Discover how taxidermy shapes our understanding and relationship with the natural world.
#10 A review on wildlife taxidermy – preservation for conservation (Article)
Extension: PDF | 9 pages
A review on wildlife taxidermy - preservation for conservation (Article) por Ashraful Kabir and Trevor J. Hawkeswood offers a concise overview of taxidermy's role in natural history and museum displays, emphasizing its importance for education and preservation. This paper highlights both dry and wet preservation techniques, as well as chemicals use...
#11 Taxidermy as Knowledge (Article)
Extension: PDF | 5 pages
Taxidermy as Knowledge (Article) by Alissa W. Walls is a review of Rachel Poliquin's "The Breathless Zoo," exploring taxidermy as a cultural phenomenon. It highlights the book's insights into human desires and relationships with animals through the lens of taxidermy.
#12 Taxidermy Skinning How To Guide
Extension: PDF | 5 pages
Taxidermy Skinning How To Guide por Eagle Creek Conservation Club is a valuable resource for anyone looking to properly skin a trophy animal for taxidermy. This guide provides step-by-step instructions and field care tips, crucial for preserving hides and ensuring a quality mount.
#13 Preparing Insect Specimens for Exhibit
Extension: PDF | 9 pages
Preparing Insect Specimens for Exhibit por University Idaho provides a concise guide for mounting and preserving insect specimens. It offers valuable techniques for creating entomological displays, making it a great resource for hobbyists.
#14 Skinning a Squirrel for Taxidermy
Extension: PDF | 9 pages
Skinning a Squirrel for Taxidermy por UndeadArts offers a detailed, step-by-step guide to skinning a squirrel specifically for taxidermy purposes. This tutorial is valuable for those looking to create unique taxidermy mounts with clear instructions.
#15 A new method of taxidermy using polyethylene glycol as an impregnation medium
Extension: PDF | 6 pages
A new method of taxidermy using polyethylene glycol as an impregnation medium por Cal R. Fremling describes an innovative method using polyethylene glycol for preserving specimens, making them less fragile and suitable for classroom use. This technique offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional taxidermy, especially valuable for educators s...
#16 Taxidermy a bird
Extension: PDF | 5 pages
Taxidermy a bird por StrangeBird offers a step-by-step guide to bird taxidermy, covering skinning, cleaning, form construction, and mounting. It's a concise resource for hobbyists and beginners seeking practical instruction on preserving avian specimens.
#17 Taxidermy of Birds
Extension: PDF | 5 pages
Taxidermy of Birds por Foxycrush offers a step-by-step guide to bird taxidermy, detailing everything from skinning to preservation. This PDF provides practical instructions and tips, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning the art of preserving birds.
#18 A study on the theoretical concepts of quality mammalian taxidermy: clues for conservation
Extension: PDF | 11 pages
A study on the theoretical concepts of quality mammalian taxidermy: clues for conservation por Ashraful Kabir, Mamata Rani Das and Trevor J. Hawkeswood offers a comprehensive overview of taxidermy techniques. It explores methods for preserving mammals, highlighting its role in conservation and scientific study.
#19 How to Pin and Spread Butterflies and Other Insects for Display
Extension: PDF | 2 pages
How to Pin and Spread Butterflies and Other Insects for Display por Home Training Tools offers a concise guide to insect pinning and spreading techniques, focusing on butterflies and beetles. This valuable resource simplifies the process, making insect preservation accessible for educational and hobbyist purposes.
#20 Take a look at how this ancient science is now art
Extension: PDF | 2 pages
Take a look at how this ancient science is now art by Joe McFarland. This article unveils the evolution of taxidermy from mere preservation to a form of artistic expression, highlighting the work of award-winning taxidermist Harvey Zeigler and his son Ryan. Discover how modern taxidermists blend mortuary science, wildlife anatomy, and artistic skil...
Animal Anatomy Books
Through the detailed observation of bony structures, muscles, and internal organs of different species, taxidermists acquire the necessary knowledge to be able to reconstruct and naturally preserve specimens.
A solid understanding of the arrangement of parts and the shape of the body allows them to give animals their living appearance in a very realistic way.
If you are interested in this topic, we invite you to visit our complete section of free animal anatomy books in PDF format.
Here ends our selection of free Taxidermy books in PDF format. We hope you liked it and already have your next book!
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