Christners Critters Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Alton, Illinois

(618) 917-2507, Alton, IL 62002View on Yelp
Christners Critters Taxidermy - taxidermy in Alton, IL

About Christners Critters Taxidermy

Christners Critters Taxidermy is based in Alton, Illinois, a river city along the Mississippi just north of St. Louis that's known for its outdoor heritage and proximity to excellent hunting and fishing grounds. The area draws waterfowl hunters to the Mississippi River bottoms and deer hunters into the river bluff timber each fall. Christners Critters brings a hands-on approach to preserving those memorable harvests. Reach them directly at (618) 917-2507 to talk through what you need.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Given Alton's location near the Mississippi flyway, Christners Critters likely handles a strong volume of waterfowl mounts, including mallards, Canada geese, and other migratory birds common to the river corridor. Whitetail shoulder mounts are a core offering, with attention to the natural musculature of river-bluff deer that tend to run big in this part of Illinois. Fish taxidermy for species like largemouth bass and catfish from the Mississippi and nearby reservoirs is a natural fit as well. Rug mounts for turkey and smaller game round out what this Alton studio can produce.

Service Area

Christners Critters Taxidermy serves Alton and the surrounding Madison County area, including nearby towns like Godfrey, Jerseyville, and Grafton. The studio is also well-positioned to serve hunters and anglers from the greater Metro East region and just across the river in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you mount waterfowl like ducks and geese?
Waterfowl mounts are a specialty for taxidermists working near the Mississippi flyway, where hunters regularly bring in mallards, teal, and Canada geese. Proper bird mounting involves careful degreasing and feather positioning to recreate a lifelike appearance.
What's the best way to care for a finished mount?
Keep your mount away from direct sunlight, which fades fur and feathers over time, and avoid high-humidity rooms like basements. Occasional light dusting with a soft brush keeps the piece looking fresh for years.
Can I get a mount done of a fish I caught in the Mississippi River?
Absolutely, and big river species like channel catfish and flatheads make impressive mounts. Bring the fish in fresh or frozen as soon as possible, and discuss whether you want a skin mount or a reproduction based on the species and your preference.
How do I know my mount will look lifelike and not stiff?
A skilled taxidermist uses detailed reference photos and high-quality forms to capture natural anatomy and expression. Don't hesitate to bring your own reference photos of a live or freshly harvested animal to share with the studio.
Is it possible to mount a deer that was hit by a vehicle?
It depends on the condition of the hide and the specific damage to the animal. Bring it in or send photos as soon as possible so the taxidermist can assess whether there's enough usable material for a quality mount.
Do you work with museums or schools in the area?
Many taxidermists accept commissions from educational institutions and nature centers that need preserved specimens for displays. Call ahead to discuss the scope and timeline, since institutional projects sometimes have unique requirements for mounting style and labeling.

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