by If you ever wanted to see museum quality taxidermy outside of a museum, the Safari Club International Convention was the place to be. There were displays from the 19 taxidermy companies that exhibited at the convention as well as displays of mounted animals in many of the outfitters’ booths. In addition, there were exhibits of world-record animals on loan to SCI from their owners.
Here are some examples of North American animals:
Of course, there were many examples of animals from Africa. Some were in large exhibits in the hallway such as the Cape buffalo shown below while others were of individual animals.
As you can tell, not all the taxidermy mounts were serious!
Finally, there was replica mounts done by Kanati Taxidermy Studio. Some, like the polar bears, are restricted from being imported into the United States. Likewise, the rhino mounts are reminders of darting rhinos for relocation. I must say these replicas seemed as authentic as any animal taken in the wild.
The taxidermists who exhibited at the convention were from around the world. I counted 14 from the United States, three from South Africa, and one each from Canada and New Zealand. In addition, you had companies such as Coppersmith and Trophy Shippers which would help you get your trophy, either finished or unfinished, back home to you.
Note: Photos taken by me are shown without credit while those taken by the Complementary Spouse aka B. Richardson are credited.
