Creating Bird Taxidermy

How is taxidermy done? Science has long used the preserved carcasses of animals to inform research, and exhibitions like the Natural History Museum, London’s Birds: Brilliant And Bizarre showcase some of the most remarkable specimens in museum collections. Among those featured in its latest exhibition are white-tailed eagles, an endangered species that almost became extinct in Europe in the 19th century but, thanks to a conservation project that’s nearing its 50th birthday, is now making a comeback in the UK.
We spoke to taxidermist Elle Kaye about how she came to be involved in the exhibition, what it takes to turn an animal that’s died into a lasting specimen, and the tips and tricks employed by taxidermists when working with animals that have died naturally and don’t always come complete.
With thanks to Elle Kaye: www.ellekayetaxidermy.co.uk/
Natural History Museum, London: www.nhm.ac.uk/
Birds: Brilliant And Bizarre: www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitio...
IFLScience exclusive exhibition interview: www.iflscience.com/acid-baths...