Wild Instincts Taxidermy

Taxidermist in California, Maryland

(301) 672-0137, California, MD 20619View on Yelp
Wild Instincts Taxidermy - taxidermy in California, MD

About Wild Instincts Taxidermy

Wild Instincts Taxidermy is located in California, Maryland, a community in St. Mary's County on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The Southern Maryland region offers hunters and anglers a diverse mix of game, from whitetail deer in the woods to rockfish and blue catfish in the Patuxent River. St. Mary's County has a strong outdoor sporting culture, and that demand keeps local taxidermists busy through the hunting and fishing seasons. Wild Instincts is positioned to serve that active local market with hands-on taxidermy work.

Services

Taxidermy

Services & Process

Wild Instincts Taxidermy works with the species most commonly harvested in Southern Maryland, including whitetail deer shoulder and full body mounts, wild turkey mounts, and fish replicas from the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay. Bird mounts require careful handling of feathers and precise positioning to look natural, and the shop's name suggests a commitment to capturing realistic, dynamic poses. Skull cleaning is another practical service, using either maceration or beetle colonies to strip the bone cleanly without damaging the antlers. Antler mounting on plaques is a simple, affordable option for hunters who want a display without the full shoulder mount cost.

Service Area

Wild Instincts Taxidermy serves California, Maryland and the surrounding St. Mary's County communities, including Lexington Park, Leonardtown, and Great Mills. Hunters and anglers from Charles County and southern Prince George's County also have easy access via Route 235 and Route 5.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a rockfish or striped bass mounted from the Chesapeake Bay?
Yes, replica mounts are the preferred method for rockfish since they capture the fish's coloring accurately and last much longer than a skin mount. You'll want to photograph your fish from multiple angles before releasing or freezing it so the taxidermist can match the colors precisely.
How long does a wild turkey mount take to complete?
Turkey mounts typically take 6 to 9 months depending on the shop's current workload. Bringing your bird in early in the spring season, rather than waiting, can sometimes shorten that wait time.
What's the best way to field dress a deer if I want a shoulder mount?
If you're planning a shoulder mount, cut well behind the front legs when field dressing rather than up the belly, and don't cut the throat. This preserves the cape material the taxidermist needs to complete the mount properly.
Do taxidermists in Southern Maryland work on exotic or out-of-state trophies?
Most full-service taxidermists will work on exotic species and out-of-state big game, though they may need to source specialty forms from specific suppliers. It's worth calling ahead to confirm they have experience with the particular species you've brought back.
Is skull cleaning better than a traditional shoulder mount for some hunters?
A European skull mount is a great option for hunters who prefer a cleaner, more minimalist display or who want to save money compared to a full shoulder mount. It shows off the antlers clearly and holds up very well over time with minimal maintenance.
What happens if my cape or fish skin gets damaged during mounting?
Experienced taxidermists can repair many types of damage, including cuts, thin spots, and areas of hair slippage, using various techniques. They'll typically let you know upfront if the specimen has damage that could affect the final appearance of the mount.

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