Hunters European Mounts

Taxidermist in Joplin, Missouri

(903) 556-50233461 Alpaca Rd, Joplin, MO 64804View on Yelp
Hunters European Mounts - taxidermy in Joplin, MO

About Hunters European Mounts

Hunters European Mounts operates out of Joplin, Missouri, a city sitting right at the crossroads of the Ozarks and the Great Plains, making it a natural hub for serious hunters across the region. Southwest Missouri produces strong whitetail deer numbers every season, and local hunters need a reliable place to preserve their trophies. This studio focuses specifically on European-style mounts, which have grown steadily in popularity for their clean, modern look. If you've taken a buck in the Joplin area, this is a specialist worth calling.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

European mounts involve removing all soft tissue from the skull, then whitening and finishing the bone for a polished, museum-quality display. The process differs significantly from traditional shoulder mounts since no hide or form is used, resulting in a lighter piece that's easier to hang and maintain. For hunters who want to preserve multiple trophies without filling an entire wall, European-style antler mounts offer a practical solution. Some providers in this category also handle skull cleaning for non-typical deer, elk, and other game taken in Missouri's diverse hunting terrain.

Service Area

Hunters European Mounts serves customers in Joplin and throughout Jasper and Newton counties. Hunters traveling in from nearby towns like Carthage, Webb City, and Carl Junction are within easy driving distance. The studio's location makes it accessible to hunters across the Missouri-Kansas border region as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a European mount compared to a shoulder mount?
A European mount displays only the cleaned and whitened skull with antlers attached, while a shoulder mount includes the hide, glass eyes, and a foam form recreating the animal's head and neck. European mounts are generally less expensive and take up less wall space, making them a popular choice for hunters who take multiple deer each season.
How soon after harvesting a deer should I bring it in?
You should bring the skull in as quickly as possible, ideally within 24 to 48 hours of the harvest. Heat and humidity accelerate decomposition, which can make the cleaning process harder and affect the final result. If you can't get there right away, keep the skull cool and away from direct sunlight.
What methods are used to clean a skull for a European mount?
The two most common methods are maceration, which uses water to break down soft tissue over time, and dermestid beetles, which are colonies of beetles that consume the tissue naturally. Some taxidermists use a combination of methods depending on the species and condition of the skull. Each approach produces slightly different results in terms of bone texture and color.
Can you mount skulls from animals other than whitetail deer?
Yes, European mounts work well for elk, turkey, hogs, bear, and even coyote. The process is the same in principle, though skull size and bone density vary between species. It's worth calling ahead to confirm the studio handles the specific species you've harvested.
How long does a European mount typically take to complete?
Turnaround times vary depending on the studio's workload and the cleaning method used, but most European mounts are completed within four to eight weeks. Peak deer season in Missouri can extend that timeline, so dropping off early in the season or shortly after is a good idea. Always ask for an estimated completion date when you drop off your skull.
How do I care for a finished European mount at home?
Keep it away from direct sunlight and high humidity, both of which can cause yellowing or cracking over time. Dusting occasionally with a soft brush is usually all the maintenance required. If the mount ever yellows significantly, a taxidermist can re-whiten the skull without damaging the antlers.

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