Blue Jay Birdworks Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Valrico, Florida

(904) 535-9321, Valrico, FL 33596View on Yelp
Blue Jay Birdworks Taxidermy - taxidermy in Valrico, FL

About Blue Jay Birdworks Taxidermy

Blue Jay Birdworks Taxidermy operates out of Valrico, Florida, a community in eastern Hillsborough County with easy access to both suburban Tampa hunters and the agricultural lands stretching toward Plant City and Brandon. The name signals a clear specialty in bird work, which sets this shop apart from the typical deer-and-fish operations that dominate Florida's taxidermy market. Bird taxidermy demands a different level of precision than big game work, making specialists like this one genuinely valuable to turkey hunters, waterfowl hunters, and collectors. You can call them at (904) 535-9321.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Bird taxidermy is a craft of its own. A full body bird mount involves careful skin preparation, wire frame construction, and detailed feather positioning to recreate the bird's natural posture and attitude. Wild turkey mounts are a popular request in Central Florida, where spring turkey seasons draw serious hunters from across the Tampa Bay region. Waterfowl mounts for ducks and geese are also common, along with exotic and exotic game birds for collectors. Habitat bases with natural materials like driftwood, marsh grasses, and rocks complete the finished display and add context to the piece.

Service Area

Blue Jay Birdworks Taxidermy is based in Valrico and serves customers throughout Hillsborough County and the surrounding Tampa Bay region. Hunters from Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, and the eastern suburbs of Tampa are well within reach. The shop's phone number, (904) 535-9321, is the best way to confirm current availability and arrange a drop-off.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to preserve a turkey after harvest for mounting?
Don't field dress a turkey you plan to mount. Instead, tuck the head under a wing, wrap the bird in a damp cloth or paper towels, place it in a plastic bag, and freeze it as soon as possible. Keeping the feathers clean and undamaged in the field makes a noticeable difference in the final mount quality.
How long does a full body bird mount take?
Most bird mounts at specialty shops take four to eight months from drop-off to completion, though larger birds or complex habitat bases can push that timeline. It's always worth asking about the current wait when you bring in your specimen so you know what to expect.
Can Blue Jay Birdworks mount exotic or non-game birds?
That depends on the species. Federally protected migratory birds and endangered species cannot be mounted without specific permits, and most taxidermists won't accept them. Legal game birds, legally acquired exotic species, and birds that died of natural causes with proper documentation are generally fair game. Call ahead to confirm whether your specific bird qualifies.
What does a habitat base for a bird mount cost?
A basic driftwood or branch perch may add only a modest amount to the total cost, while a detailed habitat scene with grasses, water features, and multiple natural elements can significantly increase the price. The taxidermist can walk you through options at different price points when you discuss your project.
How do I care for a finished bird mount in Florida's climate?
Keep the mount out of direct sunlight, which fades feather color over time, and away from high-humidity areas like garages or outdoor screened porches. Dust the feathers occasionally with a soft artist's brush, working in the direction the feathers lay naturally. Avoid using household cleaners or sprays anywhere near the mount.
Does the shop handle duck and waterfowl mounts from Central Florida hunts?
Waterfowl mounts are a natural fit for a bird specialist, and Central Florida's mix of resident and migratory ducks gives local hunters plenty of opportunities to harvest trophy-quality birds. Common requests include mallards, teal, and wood ducks in a variety of poses. A landing pose or wing-spread mount makes a dramatic wall piece and shows off the full coloring of the bird.

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