How to Store a Taxidermy Mount

Once a taxidermy mount is finished being displayed, it needs to be stored for future displays or to preserve the quality of the mount. Simply putting the mount in a storage closet will cause it to become damaged and unsightly. Preserving the mount in a professional manner can help preserve the quality of the mount.

• Remove the mount from the base and replace the base with a thick Styrofoam block. This prevents any part of the mount from sitting directly on the floor of the storage area.


• Place plastic sheeting over the mount. Securely tape the sheet of plastic around the mount. Do not tape the plastic to the animal. The plastic prevents pests and dust from damaging the mount.


• Build a box around the mounted animal. If the animal is large, you may need to build a customized box. Use several boxes, flatten them and tape them together around the animal until the animal is completely enclosed in cardboard. Secure the box and reinforce all box edges with tape.


• Store the mounted animal in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity can damage the animal. Do not store the mount in an outdoor storage facility. Keep it in a place that has environmental controls.


• Inspect the mounted animal every six months. Inspect the outside of the box for damage. Look at the box corners for rodent damage. If the box shows signs of damage, open it to determine whether the mount has been damaged. If only the box has been damaged, replace the box immediately.