McCarty Taxidermy

Taxidermist in West Liberty, Iowa

(563) 260-37271261 Ivan Ln, West Liberty, IA 52776View on Yelp
McCarty Taxidermy - taxidermy in West Liberty, IA

About McCarty Taxidermy

McCarty Taxidermy operates out of West Liberty, Iowa, a town in Muscatine County with strong ties to both farming and hunting culture. The area sits in a corridor where whitetail deer populations are consistently strong, making quality taxidermy work a genuine need for local hunters each fall. West Liberty's location between Iowa City and Muscatine puts this studio within easy reach for sportsmen from multiple surrounding counties. Working with a local provider means your mount doesn't travel far and you can check in on progress directly.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

McCarty Taxidermy covers the core services that Iowa hunters and sportsmen rely on season after season. Deer shoulder mounts are the most requested work, requiring precise ear turning, lip tucking, and natural eye finishing to look lifelike on the wall. Bird work, including pheasant and turkey mounts, is also common in this part of Iowa given the strong upland hunting traditions here. Skull cleaning for deer and other game animals is a popular option for hunters who want a clean European-style display without the cost of a full mount.

Service Area

McCarty Taxidermy serves West Liberty and the broader Muscatine County area, with customers coming from Iowa City, Muscatine, and surrounding rural communities. The studio is a practical choice for hunters across the eastern Iowa corridor looking for reliable local service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to care for a pheasant before bringing it to a taxidermist?
Don't field dress the bird. Keep it whole, wrap it loosely in a paper bag or cloth to protect the feathers, and refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible. Avoid stuffing it tightly into a plastic bag, which can mat and damage the feathers.
Can a taxidermist fix a damaged hide or broken antler tine?
Many taxidermists can repair cracked or broken tine tips and patch minor hide damage. It's worth mentioning any issues upfront so the taxidermist can factor repair work into the timeline and pricing.
How do European skull mounts differ from traditional shoulder mounts?
A European mount displays just the cleaned skull and antlers, without the cape or skin. They're a popular choice for hunters who want a cleaner look or a lower-cost alternative, and they take up less wall space than a full shoulder mount.
Do I need to make an appointment, or can I just drop off my animal?
It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak seasons like November and December when studios get very busy. Calling first ensures the taxidermist is available to go over your options and take proper notes on your specimen.
How is a turkey fan mount done?
The tail fan is removed, cleaned, and dried in a spread position, then mounted on a backing board, often alongside the beard and spurs. It's a popular and affordable way to commemorate a spring gobbler without committing to a full body mount.
Will my finished mount hold up over time?
A well-done mount can last for decades if kept away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature swings. Dusting occasionally and keeping it in a stable indoor environment will help preserve the colors and integrity of the mount.

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