What you can expect on every mount
The Dynamics of Flight
We reject the rigid, flat-wing presentation. Our method involves anatomically informed sculpting of the flight feathers to recreate the actual curvature and aerodynamic tension of a bird in motion, ensuring a dynamic, powerful, and truly lifelike flying pose.
The Depth of the Gaze
We never use pre-fab commercial rings. Instead, we meticulously re-sculpt the entire eye structure, including the fleshy eyerings and the subtle nictitating membrane (third eyelid), a detail often overlooked, to produce a gaze with unparalleled depth and natural realism.
The Open-Mouth Pose
Our technique involves multi-layered, texturing and coloration of the oral cavity (beak and tongue) to perfectly replicate the natural mucous membrane. We then introduce a subtle, permanent moisture effect to capture the realistic, humid sheen of a live bird’s saliva, transforming the pose from static to genuinely dynamic
Precision Posture & Substrate Fidelity
Our specialized approach ensures the legs and feet are positioned for perfect anatomical balance, matching the natural muscle tension of the bird’s chosen pose. We custom paint and shape the legs to perfectly reflect how they would naturally grip or conform to the specific display substrate or pose.
The Signature Feather Integrity
Achieving perfect alignment is a demanding, time-intensive final process. Our commitment to hours of meticulous, precision feather grooming ensures a seamless, non-gapped flow of plumage that maximizes the bird’s natural sheen and eliminates the messy, ruffled look.
Seamless Display Integration
As a complimentary customization, we offer color-matched display hardware. We paint the “ghost hanger” component to match your wall color, making the mount appear as if the bird is truly suspended or floating in its environment.
Every mount is a unique commission, priced based on the specialized artistry and detailed vision you hold. Contact us to discuss your design and commission a piece preserved beyond expectation.
Our Policies
- A 50% deposit is required at drop-off; the balance is due upon pickup. Certain species, such as large migratory birds or those requiring special permits, may require full payment in advance. If, after inspection, a bird is deemed unsuitable for mounting as requested, the deposit will be refunded in full.
- Federal tags are required for all migratory birds (you can fill it in-store or bring your own). Wild turkeys must be accompanied by Harvest Tags. Protected nongame species require State and Federal special permits.
- All birds are carefully inspected on arrival. Any visible damage and potential repair needs will be discussed before work begins. Additional fees may apply for specimens with severe damage (e.g., extensive shot patterns, dog bites, dispatched or breasted birds) or for salted skins. Aix Taxidermy cannot be held responsible for pre-existing spoilage, hair, feather, or scale slippage, or other hidden deterioration that may only become evident once the specimen is thawed and processed, as these conditions can compromise the final result despite proper preservation methods.
- Clients are kept informed throughout the process. Completed work must be picked up within 14 days of notification. Storage fees apply thereafter, and mounts left unclaimed beyond 30 days may be forfeited and disposed of.
- This policy ensures mounts are never left unattended for long periods, where they may risk damage, occupy valuable space, or delay the work of other clients. We proceed only with your explicit consent and always provide advance notice so you can plan ahead. Storage fees and forfeiture are applied only if deadlines are disregarded. Clear communication is essential to maintaining a smooth process and the highest level of care for your mount.
What is your pricing?
Pricing varies by species, pose complexity, and display options. Standard pricing includes a ghost hanger or an earth base. We offer also other bases and displays, including driftwood, urethane rock, and more elaborate custom habitats.
We encourage clients to contact us directly for a personalized estimate. That said, choosing a taxidermist should never be about numbers over the phone, but about experiencing the craftsmanship firsthand. We invite you to visit and see the artistry that defines our work.
What is your turnaround time?
Our standard turnaround is one year or less, with a maximum of 18 months in the rare event of unforeseen delays.
What are your business hours?
We are open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What payment options do you take?
For payments, we accept Cash, Check, Venmo, Zelle or Card.
Do you accept species other than birds?
While birds remain our specialty, we accept a select number of projects involving small mammals (no larger than a mink), reptiles (excluding large crocodilians), and invertebrates such as crustaceans and arachnids. Pet memorials often fall within these categories.
Do you do pets?
Yes, although we do not work with any pet mammal species. We recommend relaxed poses such as sleeping, resting, or simply sitting quietly. Our brains naturally associate active poses with movement, and when the animal is still, that creates some dissonance, especially for owners who spent years seeing their pet in motion and full of expressions. A calm, lifelike pose instead conveys peace, familiarity, and comfort, just like the countless quiet moments you remember them at rest.
Can I send the specimen to you?
Yes, for shipping instructions, please check the article “Shipping your Bird” on our blog. It’ll help make sure your bird arrives to us in the best condition possible.
Do you ship or deliver completed mounts?
For all other states, we offer professional crating services and partner with Timothy Gould from Obscure Gems Reptiles, who provides nationwide delivery services.
Do you offer expedite service?
Yes. A limited number of expedited projects are accepted each year. Expedite service carries an additional fee of 50% of the total project cost, with a maximum turnaround of two months.
Do you offer a veteran discount?
As immigrants, we hold a deep respect for the men and women who have served the United States, the country that welcomed us. To honor them, we offer Free Expedited Service for veterans and active-duty service members (normally subject to a 50% surcharge). Proper identification is required (Valid VA ID card or VA medical card).
Can I provide a photo of a mount for you to replicate?
Reference photos are welcome to help us understand a client’s vision. However, out of respect for our artistry and professional ethics, we do not replicate the work of other taxidermists. Each mount is created as a unique piece, shaped by our artistic interpretation and guided by references from living specimens.
Do you offer competition-quality service?
Yes. Each year we accept a select number of competition-quality projects, quoted individually and subject to specimen suitability.
