Ditzel's Wildlife Animal Artistry

Taxidermist in Hanover, Michigan

(517) 563-280512270 Luttenton Rd, Hanover, MI 49241View on Yelp

About Ditzel's Wildlife Animal Artistry

Ditzel's Wildlife Animal Artistry operates out of Hanover, Michigan, a small community in Jackson County surrounded by farmland, hardwood forests, and productive hunting grounds. Southern Michigan hunters know this region produces solid whitetail deer every fall, making local taxidermy services genuinely useful rather than just convenient. Whether you're bringing in a buck taken off a local property or a turkey from the rolling fields nearby, having a studio close to home means less travel and faster communication throughout the process.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Ditzel's handles the full range of taxidermy work hunters and anglers expect from a quality studio. Whitetail shoulder mounts are a staple, involving careful skinning, fleshing, and fitting the hide over a foam form matched to the animal's measurements. Fish mounts, whether skin mounts or reproductions, preserve the color and detail of your catch long after the season ends. Bird mounts, rug mounts, and skull cleaning round out the service list for customers who want a variety of trophies preserved properly.

Service Area

Ditzel's Wildlife Animal Artistry serves hunters and anglers throughout Hanover and the broader Jackson County area. Customers from nearby communities like Springport, Parma, and Napoleon also make the short drive for local taxidermy work. The central southern Michigan location makes it accessible from several surrounding counties.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a whitetail shoulder mount take at a Michigan taxidermist?
Most shoulder mounts take anywhere from four months to over a year depending on the studio's current workload and the time of year you drop off. Fall and early winter are the busiest seasons in Michigan, so mounts started then often take longer. Ask the studio directly for a current estimated turnaround when you bring in your deer.
Do I need to do anything to prepare my deer before dropping it off?
Keep the hide cool or frozen as soon as possible after the harvest to prevent slippage and hair loss. Avoid field dressing cuts that extend too far up the brisket, and don't cut the throat. The taxidermist will give you specific caping instructions if you call ahead before the hunt.
Can I get a fish mount if I only have photos and measurements?
Yes, reproduction mounts are made from fiberglass replicas and painted to match your fish using reference photos. You'll want clear photos from multiple angles and an accurate length and girth measurement. This is actually a popular option since it lets you release your catch and still have a mount made.
What is skull cleaning and how does it work?
Skull cleaning removes all tissue from the skull, leaving clean white bone for display or collection purposes. Methods include maceration, beetle cleaning, or boiling and degreasing, each with different timelines and results. The finished skull is typically whitened and can be mounted on a plaque or displayed on its own.
How much does a standard whitetail shoulder mount cost in Michigan?
Prices vary by studio and region, but most Michigan taxidermists charge somewhere between $450 and $700 for a standard whitetail shoulder mount. More detailed poses, habitat bases, or larger animals will increase the price. It's worth getting a quote upfront so there are no surprises at pickup.
Is a deposit required when I drop off my trophy?
Most taxidermy studios ask for a deposit at drop-off, typically ranging from 30 to 50 percent of the total cost. This helps cover the cost of materials and reserves your spot in the queue. The balance is usually due when you pick up the finished mount.

Is this your business?

Claim your listing to update your info and connect with customers.

Claim This Listing

More Taxidermists

All taxidermists in Hanover, MI →All taxidermists in Michigan →Browse all states →