In English, real stuffed animals are commonly referred to as taxidermy mounts or taxidermy specimens. Taxidermy is the art and science of preserving, mounting, and displaying animal specimens for study or decoration. These preserved animals are often used in museums, educational institutions, and private collections to showcase the natural beauty and diversity of wildlife.

What is Taxidermy?

Taxidermy involves carefully skinning an animal, treating its hide to prevent decay, and then mounting it onto a mannequin or form that replicates the animal's body shape. The process requires a deep understanding of anatomy, artistry, and preservation techniques. Taxidermy can be applied to a wide range of animals, from small birds and mammals to large game animals like deer, bears, and even fish.

Types of Taxidermy

1. Traditional Taxidermy: This involves preserving the animal's skin and mounting it on a form. The eyes are often replaced with glass replicas, and the mouth or other features may be adjusted to create a lifelike appearance.

2. Freeze-Dried Taxidermy: This modern technique involves freeze-drying the entire animal, which preserves its natural appearance more effectively than traditional methods. It is often used for smaller animals like pets.

3. Rogue Taxidermy: A creative and unconventional form of taxidermy that combines elements of fantasy and surrealism. Artists may create hybrid creatures or imaginative displays that deviate from traditional realism.

4. Anthropomorphic Taxidermy: This style involves dressing or posing animals in human-like scenarios, such as wearing clothes or engaging in human activities. It was particularly popular during the Victorian era.

Uses of Taxidermy

• Education and Science: Taxidermy specimens are invaluable in museums and educational settings, allowing people to study animal anatomy, behavior, and habitats up close.
• Hunting and Sport: Hunters often preserve their trophies through taxidermy to commemorate their experiences.
• Art and Decoration: Taxidermy is also used as a form of art, with some pieces being highly sought after for their aesthetic and cultural value.
• Memorializing Pets: Some people choose to have their beloved pets preserved through taxidermy as a way to keep their memory alive.

Ethical Considerations

Taxidermy has sparked debates about ethics, particularly regarding the sourcing of animals. Ethical taxidermists prioritize using animals that have died naturally or as part of sustainable hunting practices. Unethical practices, such as poaching or using endangered species, are widely condemned.

Notable Taxidermy Examples

• The Dodo at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History: One of the few remaining taxidermy specimens of the extinct dodo bird.
• The Lion of Gripsholm Castle: A famously poorly executed taxidermy mount of a lion, which has become an internet sensation due to its comical appearance.
• Walter Potter's Anthropomorphic Displays: Victorian-era taxidermy featuring animals in human-like scenarios, such as a rabbit schoolroom or a kitten wedding.

Conclusion

Taxidermy, or real stuffed animals, is a fascinating blend of art, science, and craftsmanship. While it serves practical purposes in education and conservation, it also holds cultural and artistic significance. Whether admired in a museum or displayed in a private collection, taxidermy specimens offer a unique way to connect with the natural world. However, it is essential to approach taxidermy with respect for ethical practices and the preservation of wildlife.