Imperial Taxidermy

Taxidermist in Santa Fe, New Mexico

(505) 471-7073509 Airport Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507View on Yelp

About Imperial Taxidermy

Imperial Taxidermy is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a city where hunting culture runs deep thanks to the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the state's rich wildlife heritage. New Mexico hunters pursue everything from mule deer and elk to wild turkey, so local taxidermists here stay busy year-round. Imperial Taxidermy serves that community with hands-on work built around preserving the quality of your trophy. If you're looking for a taxidermist who understands the animals and terrain of northern New Mexico, this is a solid starting point.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Imperial Taxidermy handles the full range of work hunters and anglers need after a successful season. Shoulder mounts for deer, elk, and pronghorn are among the most common requests, with forms carefully selected to match your animal's actual body size. Fish mounts, whether reproductions or skin mounts, are completed with hand-painted detail to capture color and scale texture. Skull cleaning and antler mounting round out the menu for clients who want a clean, low-profile display rather than a traditional full mount.

Service Area

Imperial Taxidermy serves hunters and collectors throughout Santa Fe County and the surrounding region. Clients come in from communities like Pecos, Galisteo, and Eldorado, as well as from the broader northern New Mexico corridor. The shop's location in Santa Fe makes it accessible from both the Espanola Valley and the East Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after a kill should I bring in my animal?
You should get your cape or hide to the taxidermist within 24 hours if possible, or freeze it properly if there's going to be a delay. Heat and bacteria break down skin quickly, especially during warm weather elk or deer seasons in New Mexico.
What's the difference between a skin mount and a reproduction for fish?
A skin mount uses the actual skin of your fish stretched over a form, while a reproduction is a fiberglass replica painted to match your catch. Reproductions are more durable and hold color better over time, and they're a good choice if you plan to release your fish.
How long does a shoulder mount typically take?
Most shoulder mounts take anywhere from six months to over a year depending on the taxidermist's current workload and the time of year you bring in your animal. Hunting season creates a backlog, so earlier drop-offs generally get done faster.
Can you mount animals that were hit by a vehicle or found in the wild?
It depends on the condition of the animal and local regulations. Some roadkill can be salvaged if the hide is intact and the animal is brought in quickly, but you may need a permit depending on the species and New Mexico wildlife laws.
Do you offer skull cleaning services?
Yes, skull cleaning is a popular option for hunters who want a display that's easier to store and ship than a full mount. European mounts are done through either boiling or beetle cleaning, with beetle-cleaned skulls generally producing a cleaner result.
How should I care for a finished mount at home?
Keep mounts away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and out of humid areas to avoid mold or skin damage. Dusting with a soft brush and occasionally applying a conditioner to the hide will help the mount stay in good shape for decades.

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