Emersons Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Dry Ridge, Kentucky

(859) 391-9363800 Eckler Rd, Dry Ridge, KY 41035View on Yelp
Emersons Taxidermy - taxidermy in Dry Ridge, KY

About Emersons Taxidermy

Emerson's Taxidermy is based in Dry Ridge, Kentucky, a small Grant County community along the I-75 corridor between Cincinnati and Lexington. The area sits at the edge of some productive Northern Kentucky hunting land, where deer, turkey, and other game are regularly taken throughout the season. For hunters in Grant County and the surrounding rural communities, having a local taxidermist nearby means not having to haul specimens long distances to a metro area shop. Emerson's fills that role for a region that values both craftsmanship and convenience.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

A full-service taxidermy shop in a rural Kentucky county like Grant typically covers whitetail deer shoulder mounts, full body small game mounts, and bird work including turkey, pheasant, and duck. Skull cleaning, whether through beetle colony processing or boiling and whitening, is a popular and affordable service for hunters who want to display antlers without the cost of a full cape mount. Fish mounts from local lakes and streams are also common, with artificial reproductions becoming the preferred choice over skin mounts for better long-term durability. Each mount type requires different preservation techniques and timelines.

Service Area

Emerson's Taxidermy serves the Dry Ridge area and Grant County broadly, with clients also coming from neighboring Pendleton, Owen, and Kenton counties. The I-75 location makes it accessible for hunters throughout the Northern Kentucky corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a skin mount and an artificial fish reproduction?
A skin mount uses the actual fish skin stretched over a form, while an artificial reproduction is a fiberglass or resin replica painted to match your fish exactly. Reproductions are increasingly popular because they hold their color and shape better over time and don't require you to keep the fish rather than releasing it. Many catch-and-release anglers use photos to order a reproduction without harvesting the fish at all.
How does beetle colony skull cleaning work?
Dermestid beetles are small flesh-eating insects that taxidermists use to clean skulls naturally and efficiently. The skull is placed in a controlled beetle colony enclosure, and the beetles strip away all soft tissue over several days while leaving the bone completely intact. It's considered the most precise cleaning method and produces a cleaner result than boiling in many cases.
Can a damaged cape still be used for a mount?
It depends on the extent and location of the damage. Small cuts or tears can often be repaired by an experienced taxidermist without any visible seams in the finished mount. Bullet damage or large areas of missing hide are more challenging and may require discussion about alternative mounting options like a European skull mount.
How should I store my mount once I bring it home?
Keep your mount away from direct sunlight, which fades both the hide and painted details over time. Avoid humid areas like basements, and don't place it near heating or air conditioning vents, as extreme temperature swings can cause cracking or warping. A gentle dusting with a soft brush every few months is usually all the maintenance needed.
Is it possible to mount an animal that was killed by a vehicle?
Sometimes, yes, but it depends heavily on the condition of the specimen. Roadkill that's been discovered quickly and kept cool can still be salvageable for a mount. The key factors are how much damage was done and whether the hide is still intact enough to work with. It's worth calling a taxidermist before assuming a roadkill specimen isn't usable.
Do I need a permit to have certain wild animals mounted in Kentucky?
For legally harvested game like deer, turkey, and most fish, a valid hunting or fishing license is generally all that's needed. Some species, especially migratory birds like ducks and geese, require additional federal documentation like a possession permit or proof of legal harvest. Your taxidermist can advise you on what paperwork is needed based on the species you're bringing in.

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