Taxidermy and Zoological Collecting

A practical, hands‑on manual written for anyone drawn to the art of preserving wildlife, this guide walks readers through the essentials of collecting, preparing, and mounting specimens. Drawing on decades of experience at a national museum, the author offers clear instructions that cut through the jargon‑filled texts that often dominate the field, making the craft approachable for hobbyists, sportsmen, and budding museum curators alike.

The book also reaches beyond vertebrates, featuring a detailed section on insect preservation and a thorough chapter on assembling disarticulated skeletons. Richly illustrated with dozens of plates and line drawings, the visual aids clarify each step—from field collection to final display—while the author’s urgent appeal to protect disappearing species adds a timely, conservation‑focused perspective. Listeners will come away with both confidence in their techniques and a deeper appreciation for the natural world they aim to safeguard.