The Longevity of Taxidermy

Taxidermy is thought to forever preserve your earned treasures. But as we all know, nothing lasts forever, so how long does taxidermy last, and what can you proactively do to preserve your treasure? Read along as we discuss the timeline of a taxidermied piece’s life and tips to keep it looking fresh.

There is no set amount of time a taxidermy piece can withstand. The longevity of pieces depends on how well the mount was preserved and how often upkeep is performed. Oddly enough, the oldest known mount is a crocodile, currently hanging in a Ponte Nossa, Italy, church building. Though the piece was lost for years, it was recovered in the church building attic in the 18th century. Through the years, facts about the crocodile have been lost, but the church does contain details about the removal of the crocodile from the church building in 1534, making the article more than 500 years old! How does the crocodile go from a living being to a worldwide artifact half a century later? By a careful taxidermy process!

On average, taxidermy lasts about twenty years and older. If not regularly maintained, the piece lasts about 20 years. If properly tended to, the mount can last fifty years or longer. Since the mount skins come from organic materials, they are bound to start deteriorating over time. The smaller the animal, the shorter the amount of time it will withstand time. This is often because smaller pieces are prone to more damage and often have fragile features, like skin, feathers, and scales. The environment a mount is kept in also affects the quality. Humidity and sunshine are harsh factors that both cause quicker deterioration.

What can you do to preserve your piece? Keep the piece inside, maintain the humidity level it is exposed to, and give it a light dusting once a week. Furthermore, be sure to take in your taxidermy piece once a year for any necessary touch-ups. More importantly, here are four things you need to avoid doing to your mount:

1. Don’t use household cleaners

2. Avoid placing it in a location with lots of smoke, like above a fireplace

3. Don’t touch the piece

4. Avoid placing the piece in indirect sunlight

With the proper preservation techniques and care, your mount will last well beyond its expected years. To inquire about your trophy piece, call me at 919.291.6506. At Tim Knight’s Taxidermy, we are skilled and equipped to handle your most prized trophies. 

Bows Under the Trees

In North Carolina, archery equipment is defined as “any device that has a solid stationary handle with two limbs and a string that uses non-pneumatic means to propel a single arrow or bolt.” Longbows, recurve bows, compound bows, and cross bows are the four legalized hunting bows in North Carolina and can be used for any species. ERegulations further outline laws when it comes to hunting with bows in North Carolina. “When used to hunt bear, deer, elk, wild turkey, alligator and feral swine:

• Longbows and recurve bows must have a minimum pull of 40 pounds.

• Compound bows must have a minimum pull of 35 pounds.

• Crossbows must have a minimum pull of 100 pounds. 

• Only arrows and bolts with a fixed minimum broadhead width of seven-eighths of an inch or a mechanically opening broadhead with a width of at least seven-eighths of an inch in the open position shall be used.”

To many, hunting with a bow is viewed as an art. Archery requires more stealth, focus, and practice than a gun. Below, we will be walking through each bow and what makes them unique.

Longbows: The longbow is centuries old and was crafted as a military machine. The curation of the longbow has been traced to the Celtics in Wales around 1180 C.E. Around six feet tall with 200 pounds of drawn strength, longbows can shoot up to a half a mile away. At its creation, the longbow was one of the most powerful and deadliest weapons used. 

Recurve bows: recurve bows are modern, sleek, and easy to use with plenty of practice. The most popular type of traditional bow, they are suggested for use with beginner archers. This bow is arched with the tips drawing towards the archer, giving it its name. These bows have up to sixty pounds in draw strength, and can shoot between 100-200 yards away. In 1972, recurve bows were introduced in the Olympics and are the only type of bow allowed to compete. 

Compound bows: “The compound bow was invented in the 1960s as a more mechanically efficient piece of archery equipment. The design uses a levering system of pulleys and cables, making it faster and decidedly more accurate than other types of bow.” The draw of a compound bow can be up to sixty pounds, but the hold once drawn reduces to thirteen pounds. The range of a compound bow is 60 yards to 130 yards. Same as recurve bows, compound bows are more enticing to beginner archers. Compound bows come in great variety, which helps find a more comfortable option. 

Crossbows: “A crossbow has a stock that is similar to a firearm, and it shoots shorter arrows than conventional archery equipment.” Crossbows are a short-range tool with a max reach of thirty to forty yards. Crossbows have a much greater draw weight than recurve and compound bows. They are hard and take more time to load as well. The draw weight of a crossbow sits between seventy five to 125 pounds. 

Want to give your hunter the gift of their dreams? A bow under the tree is a perfect option. As hunting season continues, you can rely on me to supply your taxidermy needs. Contact me today to learn more about my services.

The History of Taxidermy

Such a strange yet common practice, taxidermy is used by many to preserve proud hunting trophies, loving pets, and other unique animal finds one would want to display and cherish. Now common to us, taxidermy had to have originated from somewhere. Have you ever given a thought to the history of taxidermy? Or have you ever wondered who first began preserving remains? Did you know taxidermy was a forgotten art until only a couple of centuries ago?

You may or may not be surprised to learn taxidermy is traced to ancient Egypt. Just like with body mummification, Egyptians practiced preserving animals as well. Taxidermy came with a high price and was only offered to the pets of the Pharaoh or other high-nobility figures. Upon burial, the Egyptians believed whatever you lied with would follow you into the afterlife. This often included personal belongings, items of comfort, weapons, treasures, and animals. The Egyptians practiced taxidermy using specific tools and oils, and the art has since transformed over time. From skin preservation to stuffing, taxidermy has varied through each civilization it has passed through. Strangely enough, the art wasn’t practiced for a couple of centuries until discovered again around the Victorian Era. Early taxidermy practices included stuffing the skins with a variety of materials. This poor practice resulted in an unnatural appearance for the animals. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, taxidermist techniques evolved and relied on more form-holding materials, like styrofoam and metal rods. The styrofoam acted as a mannequin for the animal, with the skin being wrapped around the materials, and the rods provided the stability needed. Stepping into the 20th century, new practices became common for taxidermy. Once the skin was removed, the animal was buried in the ground until composition was completed, then dug back up for bone extraction. Another solution that became popular around 1980 was using dermestid beetles to eat the flesh off animal remains. 

Today, there are three popular forms of taxidermy in practice. “Convention taxidermy” is when the taxidermist uses real animal skin- after being tanned- and mounts it over a mannequin. The second method is freeze-drying the animal. This process, completed over a long period of time, removes all liquid and moisture in the body and preserves the body from decay. The freeze-dried method often allows for the most natural preservation process. The third method, mainly used for fish, creates a replica of the animal. Using pictures and measurements, the taxidermist replicates the animals often on resin or fiberglass structures. 

From the time of the Egyptians to today, one thing stands true- we love preserving our prized possessions. If you are looking to bring your trophy back to life, give me a call at Tim Knight’s Taxidermy. My services include the North American Shoulder Mount, ducks, birds, and fish. Call me today at (919) 291- 6506.

Scary Consequences of Hunting on Private Property

Thirty minutes before sunrise, you are sitting in the blinds of a hunting spot. Having gotten up early and trekked through the dark with your supplies, you are ready to begin your favorite time of year. You’ve been told this is the perfect location for geese to come through, but you’ve never been here before so you take others' word for it. You sit and wait, but it doesn’t take long to see geese cupping in the distance as they start to descend before you. You hoist up your shotgun and take aim. But wait, are you sure you are allowed to hunt on this property? You didn’t notice any signs as you came onto the land, and you don’t think your friends would break the law. Do you know the consequences if you are caught hunting on private property?

According to North Carolina law, hunting on private property, without permission, can result in a class 2 misdemeanor.

“Any person who willfully goes on the land, waters, ponds, or a legally established waterfowl blind of another that has been posted in accordance with the provisions of G.S. 14-159.7, to hunt, fish or trap without written permission of the landowner, lessee, or his agent shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor. Written permission shall be carried on one's person, signed by the landowner, lessee, or agent, and dated within the last 12 months. The written permission shall be displayed upon request of any law enforcement officer of the Wildlife Resources Commission, sheriff or deputy sheriff, or other law enforcement officer with general subject matter jurisdiction.”

Consequences for hunting on private property come with a big scare. If caught hunting on private property without written permission you could be fined up to $1,000, be required to complete one to sixty active days of community service, or even serve up to 60 days jail time. So before you pull the trigger and decide to hunt, do your research and make sure the property you are on is public game land, or you have written permission from a private land owner to use their land.

After your successful day of hunting, I will be ready to celebrate with you. Tim Knight Taxidermy is ready to make your hunt last forever. Contact me at (919) 291-6506 to preserve one of your greatest memories.

Early Fall hunting tips for Eastern north carolina

As summer comes to a close, many hunters in eastern North Carolina eagerly anticipate the start of early fall hunting season. The cooler temperatures create the perfect environment for a successful hunting experience.  

One of the most popular game animals during this time of year is the white-tailed deer. With the rut season approaching, bucks are more active and visible, making them easier to track and take down. Hunters should take advantage of this opportunity by scouting out areas where deer are known to feed and travel and setting up stands or blinds in strategic locations.

Another popular target for this season is the wild turkey. As the weather cools, turkeys begin to form larger flocks, making them easier to spot and track. Hunters should focus on areas with plentiful food sources, such as oak and hickory trees, and use calls to attract the birds within range. In addition to deer and turkey, there are also opportunities to hunt small game such as squirrels and rabbits. These animals can provide a fun and challenging hunt for both beginner and experienced hunters.

As with any hunting season, don’t forget to practice important safety measures and follow all regulations set by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Hunters should wear brightly colored clothing to remain visible to other hunters, and always keep their firearms pointed in a safe direction.

Overall, early fall hunting in eastern North Carolina offers a unique and exciting experience for hunters of all levels. With the right preparation and a little bit of patience, hunters can have a successful and memorable season. If you’re planning on going hunting this season, contact Tim Knight Taxidermy at (919) 291-6506, and let us bring your harvest back to life! 

Start Preparing For Early Fall Bowhunting in NC

As the summer heat begins to fade away and the leaves start to turn, bowhunters in North Carolina know that it's time to start gearing up for early fall hunting. While the weather may be starting to cool down, hunting at this time of year requires a bit more preparation and strategy than at other times of the year. In this blog, we’re sharing some tips to help you make the most of your early fall bowhunting experience in NC.

1. Scout your hunting area. Before you head out to your hunting spot, take some time to scout the area. Look for signs of deer activity, such as tracks, rubs, and scrapes. Pay attention to food sources and water sources, as well as bedding areas. The more you know about the area, the better your chances of success!

2. Practice your shot. Bowhunting requires precision and accuracy, so it's important to practice your shot before heading out into the field. Set up targets at varying distances and practice shooting from different angles and positions. This will help you get comfortable with your equipment and improve your accuracy.

3. Choose the right gear. Early fall hunting can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Make sure you have the right clothing, including layers that can be added or removed as needed. You'll also want to make sure your bow is properly tuned and that you have plenty of arrows, broadheads, and other necessary equipment.

4. Play the wind. Deer have an incredible sense of smell, so it's important to pay attention to the wind direction when setting up your stand or blind. You don't want your scent to be carried toward the deer, as this will quickly spook them and ruin your chances of a successful hunt.

5. Be patient. Hunting this time of year can be challenging, as deer are still in their summer patterns and may not be as active during daylight hours. Be patient and willing to wait for the right opportunity. Remember, bowhunting is about the experience as much as the harvest.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful early fall bowhunting season in North Carolina. Remember to always hunt safely and ethically, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. If you complete a successful hunting trip, let Tim Knight Taxidermy help you remember your harvest for years to come. Contact us at 919-291-6506 to get started. Happy hunting!

Summer Saltwater Fishing in Eastern NC

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, many anglers turn their attention to the saltwater fishing opportunities available in Eastern North Carolina. Here are five local saltwater fishing spots worth checking out this summer:

1. Cape Lookout National Seashore. Located on the southern Outer Banks, Cape Lookout offers some of the best surf fishing in the state. Red drum, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel are just a few of the species you can target here.

2. Beaufort Inlet. This deepwater inlet is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, flounder, and bluefish. The inlet is also a popular spot for offshore fishing charters.

3. Bogue Inlet. Located in Emerald Isle, Bogue Inlet is a great spot for targeting flounder and speckled trout. The inlet is also a popular spot for surf fishing.

4. Pamlico Sound. This large, shallow sound is home to a variety of fish species, including red drum, spotted seatrout, and flounder. Kayak fishing is a popular way to explore the Sound's many creeks and marshes.

5. Neuse River. The Neuse River is a popular spot for targeting striped bass, flounder, and red drum. The river is also home to a number of fishing tournaments throughout the year. Remember to always follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release whenever possible.

If you’re planning on going fishing this season, contact Tim Knight Taxidermy at (919) 291-6506, and let us bring your harvest back to life!

Preserve Your Summer Memories With Taxidermy

Summer is one of the most fun and adventurous times of the year. Here in NC, we are graced with both the mountains and the beach so this makes the perfect atmosphere for a variety of hunting trips. Preserving your adventures with taxidermy can be a really special way to remember a once-in-a-lifetime hunting trip! 

Different mounts can be hung or displayed in your home or office, and will always be there to remind you of the great times and adventures you had! Taxidermy is a great way to help you preserve memories from your hiking trips, camping excursions, or any other outdoor adventure you may have had during the summertime. Whatever animal you are hunting this summer, taxidermy can turn a simple memory into a stunning piece of art. 

Taxidermy can be especially great if you are planning a really unique hunting trip this year and you want to make sure you have something to remember the great times you had! For those who enjoy fishing, taxidermy can also help to preserve the memory of that big catch you made on a fishing trip. A mounted fish on the wall can serve as a constant reminder of the thrill of the catch and the memories made on the water.

Are you planning on any hunting or fishing trips this summer? Relive those special moments and share them with others for years to come! Tim Knight Taxidermy is here to help you create lasting memories. Contact us today at (919) 291-6506 to get started on preserving your summer memories.

Remember Your Fishing Trip With Taxidermy

Fishing in the springtime can be an exciting and rewarding activity. With the right tools, you can have a successful trip and bring home your catch to be mounted. This month, we are sharing the benefits of taxidermy so that you can make the most of your next fishing trip this season!

Taxidermy can be an excellent way to preserve the memories of a successful fishing trip, as it provides a natural-looking representation of your catch. Taxidermied fish and game look beautiful on the wall, with the colors and patterns of their natural habitat still intact. Many anglers choose to display their catches as trophies or mementos so that they can remember their time out on the water for years to come. Not only is taxidermy a great way to showcase your accomplishments, but it can also provide invaluable scientific information, such as the size, age, and weight of the animal.

For those looking to have their prized catch preserved for a lifetime of memories, taxidermy is the perfect way to immortalize your most significant fishing catches. Taxidermy requires some special attention when preparing your fish for mounting. When done properly, you can enjoy an impressive trophy for years to come!  When you catch your fish, wrap it in a wet towel, then carefully place it into a cooler or plastic bag filled with crushed ice and allow it to cool. You want to keep the fish at a cold temperature until it’s ready to be mounted. This will help preserve its skin and maintain its vibrant colors! Don’t forget to also clean and gut your fish. Carefully remove the scales, fins, and any other parts that may be in the way.

Taxidermy can transform your catch into an amazing conversation piece and is a great way to commemorate a successful fishing trip. If you’re planning on going fishing this season, contact Tim Knight Taxidermy at (919) 291-6506, and let us bring your harvest back to life!

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/spring-wild-turkey-hunting-tips

Start Preparing for Spring Turkey Season!

The days are getting longer, the temperatures are starting to warm up, and the turkeys are starting to gobble. That can only mean one thing: Spring turkey hunting season is just around the corner! Here in North Carolina, spring turkey hunting starts in mid-April and goes until the end of May. Keep these tips in mind as you begin preparing for any future turkey-hunting trips:

Count On Camouflage. It’s essential that you wear proper camouflage when you decide to go out hunting for turkeys. Don’t forget,  always wear bright reflective blaze orange clothing or something that is not a red, blue, or white color. Those colors resemble male turkeys so if there are any other nearby hunters, you could easily be mistaken for a turkey! Your total camouflage attire should include a face mask and gloves. If you don’t wear these things, it can be a lot easier for a turkey to spot you and flee the area.

Bring a Hunting Buddy.  If you plan on enjoying turkey hunting this season, bringing a buddy to hunt with can be a lot more effective and rewarding. This way, you and your friend can take turns shooting and calling. It’s also important to remember to ethically harvest a turkey. To do that, just make sure that you aim for the head and neck. This will ensure a quick, clean kill and will also prevent any pellets from getting into the meat.

Never Stalk a Turkey. It’s important that you never stalk a turkey. This will increase your chances of being mistaken for other types of game! Instead, you can position yourself so that your back is against a tree wider than you are. This helps hide your outline and can protect you from accidental shootings from behind.

If you plan on doing some spring-season turkey hunting, contact me today at 919-291-6506 and we’ll preserve your harvest for you to enjoy for a lifetime!

SOURCES:

https://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/Hunting/Documents/HE_Spring_09.pdf

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/spring-wild-turkey-hunting-tips