Taxidermy

by Leon Pray

This early work on taxidermy is a fascinating read for the amateur or professional taxidermist and also contains much information that is still useful today. Extensively illustrated with full page diagrams and drawings. Contents Include: Tools and Materials; Preparing and Mounting a Deer Head; Preparing and Mounting a Fish; Preparing and Mounting a Bird; Preparing and Mounting a Wildcat; Preparing and Mounting a Small Mammal; Preparing and Mounting a Tortoise, A Horned Toad, and a Crayfish; Papier-Maches, Pasties, Mothproofing Solution, Etc. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

Genres: Nonfiction

105 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1943

Reviews

[Emilie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting partly for the how-to information, though that's dated in some ways. For instance, modern taxidermists wouldn't use arsenic preparations or certain of the acid solutions Mr. Pray recommends. Also interesting for the historical aspects.

I'd say someone who is serious about the how-to aspect of taxidermy should also consult modern books about the chemicals used. The physical work of skinning an animal probably hasn't changed that much. I remember reading a mid-century book in which the author was excited about being able to get realistic-looking eyes through mail-order. Nowadays plastic eyes would be available on the Internet, I would think. Some of the tools Mr. Pray suggests the taxidermist make for themselves would now be available ready-made.

Recommended with the caveat that there would now be safer chemicals to use for preservation.