Taxidermy Is Not Just Stuffing Animals

Taxidermy does not involve stuffing animals with straw. Instead, experts create hollow replicas of the animal's anatomy and carefully stretch the skin over them like a custom suit.

The term taxidermy actually comes from Greek words meaning arrangement of skin. Modern professionals often use foam or fiberglass manikins that are sculpted to look like the living animal in motion. They treat the hides with chemicals to prevent decay and ensure the preservation lasts for decades. This blend of biology, art, and sculpture is why some mounts look surprisingly lifelike.