Sharps Taxidermy Studio

Taxidermist in Jerico Springs, Missouri

(417) 955-00693050 E 1974th Rd, Jerico Springs, MO 64756View on Yelp

About Sharps Taxidermy Studio

Sharps Taxidermy Studio is based in Jerico Springs, a small Cedar County community in the heart of Missouri's Ozark border country. This part of the state offers some genuinely productive deer and turkey habitat, with agricultural fields meeting timbered creek drainages that consistently hold trophy-class whitetail. Cedar County hunters have access to quality public and private land, and they need a studio that takes the work seriously. Sharps brings a focused, craftsman-style approach to taxidermy in a part of Missouri where that reputation matters.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Sharps Taxidermy Studio handles whitetail deer shoulder mounts as its core service, working with the forms and capes that come out of Cedar County's productive hunting ground each fall. Turkey mounts are a natural second specialty given the strong spring gobbler hunting throughout the region. Skull cleaning using either maceration or beetle colony methods produces clean European mounts that many modern hunters prefer for their simplicity. Full body work for smaller game like fox, raccoon, or coyote is also part of the studio's capabilities.

Service Area

Sharps Taxidermy Studio serves Cedar County and the neighboring counties of Dade, Polk, and St. Clair across south-central Missouri. Hunters coming from El Dorado Springs and surrounding communities find Jerico Springs a convenient location. The studio draws clients from a broad rural area where quality taxidermists aren't always easy to find.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between maceration and beetle cleaning for skull mounts?
Maceration involves soaking the skull in warm water over a period of weeks until the tissue breaks down naturally, while beetle colonies use dermestid beetles to consume soft tissue much faster and with very precise results. Beetles are generally preferred for quality work because they don't affect the bone or damage delicate structures. Both methods produce clean results, but beetles are the professional standard.
How do I know if my deer cape is still usable after a long field recovery?
Slip, which is when hair starts to separate from the hide, is the main sign that a cape has gone bad. If you can pull hair out easily with your fingers, the cape has likely deteriorated too much for a quality mount. A taxidermist can assess the cape when you drop it off, but bringing it in quickly is always your best protection.
Can you mount smaller game animals like fox or coyote?
Yes, predator mounts are a regular part of the workload at studios in this region, since coyotes and fox are commonly taken by deer hunters and trappers alike. Full body poses give these animals a natural, dynamic look that shoulder mounts can't achieve. Rug mounts are another option for flat wall or floor display.
Is a deposit required, and when is the balance due?
Most taxidermists require a deposit of 25 to 50 percent at the time of drop-off to cover material costs and hold your spot in the queue. The remaining balance is typically due when the mount is completed and ready for pickup. Make sure you get a written receipt and agreement so the terms are clear for both sides.
How long will a finished mount last if I take care of it properly?
A well-made mount that's kept out of direct sunlight and humidity can last for decades without significant fading or deterioration. Dust it gently with a soft brush or low-power air a few times per year, and keep it away from heating vents and damp areas. UV exposure is the biggest enemy of color retention, especially for fish and bird mounts.
Do you work with mounts that need repair or restoration?
Restoration work on old or damaged mounts is something many taxidermists will take on, though it depends heavily on how much work the piece needs. Common repairs include re-gluing loose antlers, touching up faded paint on fish, and reattaching ears or eyelids that have dried out and pulled away. It's worth bringing the piece in for an assessment to see if restoration is feasible.

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