Taxidermy FAQ

We specialise in deer, fox, buffalo and pig taxidermy, with other game animals, birds and exotic species considered by arrangement. Deer work includes Sambar, Red, Rusa, Chital, Fallow and Hog deer.

Deer shoulder mounts currently start from $1,000. Hog deer are $1,000, Chital and Fallow deer $1,100, Rusa deer $1,200, and Red deer and Sambar $1,500. Special poses or additional features may affect the final price.

A Sambar deer shoulder mount is currently $1,500. This includes a full shoulder mount with realistic detailing. Contact The Taxidermist before bringing your trophy in to confirm the current price and your preferred pose.

Most taxidermy projects take approximately 3 to 12 months. Turnaround depends on the species, complexity of the mount and the current workshop queue. An estimated completion time can be provided when your job is booked.

Keep the trophy clean, cool and protected as quickly as possible. Avoid unnecessary cuts or damage to the cape, particularly around the chest, shoulders and neck. If you are unsure how to cape it, contact us before cutting so we can advise you or cape the deer for you.

Yes, if the trophy cannot be delivered promptly, freezing is usually the safest option. Place it in a well-sealed bag, remove excess air where possible and freeze it as soon as practical. This helps reduce deterioration before taxidermy work begins.

Yes. The Taxidermist offers professional deer caping, which can help prevent accidental cuts or damage to valuable areas of the hide needed for a quality shoulder mount.

Caping is currently $250 per head. If you are unsure about preparing your deer after a hunt, contact us before making any cuts and we can advise you on the best approach.

A deposit is required before work begins and is generally around 25–50% of the total job. The exact deposit can vary depending on the mount, materials and scope of work.

Yes. You can discuss the direction, head position and overall presentation of your trophy before work begins. Custom poses and features may affect the final price, so it is best to discuss your preferred look when booking.

Yes. Melbourne hunters regularly travel to the Geelong and Bannockburn area, and trophies can be brought to The Taxidermist by appointment. The workshop is located at 44 Lowndes Road, Bannockburn, Victoria.

Yes. Hunters and customers from regional Victoria can use The Taxidermist. Contact us before travelling so we can arrange a suitable time and discuss the condition and transport of your trophy.

Yes, specimens can be accepted from interstate customers. Contact us before sending anything so we can advise on suitable packaging, freezing and freight arrangements for your particular trophy.

The Taxidermist is located at 44 Lowndes Road, Bannockburn VIC 3331, just outside Geelong in Victoria. Visits are by appointment, so please call before arriving.

Yes, visits are by appointment. Call 0425 847 530 before travelling to arrange a suitable time for a drop-off, collection or consultation.

Only when the appropriate legal permits and authorisations are in place. Many Australian native species are protected, including deceased or found animals. Check the relevant wildlife requirements before collecting, transporting or arranging taxidermy of protected wildlife.

Permits may be required depending on the species. Protected native wildlife is regulated in Victoria and you should confirm the applicable wildlife licence or permit requirements before bringing the specimen to a taxidermist.

African and imported game trophies may be accepted subject to Australian wildlife, biosecurity and import requirements. Contact us before arranging international or interstate transport so the species and required paperwork can be checked first.