How Can
I Find a Job in the UK Taxidermy Industry?
This is a question Northern
Natural History is frequently asked, regrettably there are currently
very few taxidermy jobs advertised in Britain. You could start
by writing to a few local firms in your area or some of the larger
museums or universities to see if they have any, or know of any
positions becoming available, but be prepared to travel.
Training is from three
to five years depending on your current knowledge of wildlife.
A good background in natural history, a childhood spent bird
watching will help your progress immensely. A knowledge of hunting/shooting
is just not enough to enter the UK taxidermy industry!
A background in model
making or experience in the tanning industry will all help. Securing
a part-time job could at least give you some practical experience.
If you are over the age
of sixteen to eighteen you may find it hard to enter the trade.
Be prepared for hard work as you will start as a skinner and
the fleshing of large game hides is no easy task!
Very importantly make
sure that any business which takes you on has adequate employers
liability insurance and is aware of current health and safety
issues within the trade.
