Double Shovel Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Palmer, Alaska

(907) 795-1297, Palmer, AK 99645View on Yelp

About Double Shovel Taxidermy

Double Shovel Taxidermy operates out of Palmer, Alaska, the agricultural hub of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and a town with deep roots in Alaskan working culture. Palmer sits close to some of the most productive moose habitat in the state, and hunters throughout the valley rely on local taxidermists who understand big Alaskan game. The shop's name has a no-nonsense feel that reflects how most Mat-Su craftspeople operate: focused on the work, not the marketing. If you're looking for a straightforward local taxidermist after a successful hunt, they're worth a call at (907) 795-1297.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Double Shovel Taxidermy covers the essential services Mat-Su hunters need, starting with shoulder and full body mounts for species like moose, caribou, black bear, and brown bear. Antler mounting is a popular and affordable option for hunters who want to display a trophy rack without a full mount. Skull cleaning, done through boiling or beetle colony methods, produces a clean European-style display piece. The shop also handles bird work, including ptarmigan and waterfowl mounts, which are common requests from Alaska hunters who pursue multiple species in a single season.

Service Area

Double Shovel Taxidermy serves hunters and anglers in Palmer and throughout the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The shop is accessible to clients coming from Wasilla, Big Lake, Sutton, and the communities along the Glenn Highway corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a European skull mount and how is it done?
A European mount displays the cleaned skull and antlers or horns without any skin. The taxidermist removes all soft tissue through boiling, simmering, or using a dermestid beetle colony, then whitens and seals the bone. It's a popular option that costs less than a full shoulder mount and works well for moose, caribou, and deer.
Can you mount a Dall sheep if the cape was damaged in the field?
Sometimes, depending on the extent of the damage. Experienced taxidermists can repair cuts, bullet holes, and moderate slippage, but severe damage to the face or ears may limit the options. It's always worth bringing the cape in for an assessment rather than assuming it's unusable.
How much does a moose shoulder mount typically cost in Alaska?
Prices vary by shop and the size of the moose, but full-size Alaskan moose mounts are among the most expensive shoulder mounts because of the enormous forms and materials required. Expect to budget significantly more than a deer mount from the Lower 48. The shop can give you a firm quote when you drop off the cape.
Do you offer mounting for birds like ptarmigan or ducks?
Yes, bird mounting is a common service. Ptarmigan, Canada geese, and various ducks are all regular requests at Alaskan taxidermy shops. Birds require a different preservation approach than mammals, and the feathers need careful handling to maintain their natural appearance.
How do I store my cape if I can't get to the shop right away?
If you can't drop it off within a few hours, skin the animal as soon as possible, flesh the cape to remove excess meat and fat, and apply a generous coat of non-iodized salt to the flesh side. Roll it up, let it drain, re-salt, and keep it cool. Frozen capes are also fine as long as they're wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Is it possible to get a reproduction fish mount instead of a skin mount?
Yes, reproduction mounts are cast from real fish and painted to match your specific catch. They're a great option if you want to release the fish or if the skin wasn't preserved well enough for a traditional mount. Many anglers prefer reproductions because they hold their color and detail better over time.

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