Taxidermy Truths

Commissions in the Hunting industry | A PH Journals & Splitting Image Taxidermy Podcast

Doug recently sat down with Dylan Love of PH Journals, to have an open discussion about the role of commissions in the hunting and taxidermy industry.  
They also discuss shipping, the client experience, relationships and ethical principles. 
Without the hunting industry in South Africa, our wildlife would and our economy would lose value. It’s important that we stand shoulder to shoulder to keep moving forward – listen to the full episode to learn more.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 29 | Shipping your Taxidermy

Shipping your trophies shouldn’t be scary. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug unpacks the shipping process and explains the relationship between all parties involved in getting your trophies from the taxidermist to your home.  
We speak about the pros and cons of ocean vs airfreight, how shipping rates are calculated and important steps to take to ensure simple and efficient passage of your trophies to final destination. 
If you’re exporting trophies from South Africa – you don’t want to miss this.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 28 | All things Replicas

In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, we are talking all things Replicas. 
Doug sits down with Sjoerd Leistra, a master mold maker and fine artist. 
They discuss the various techniques involved in creating hyper-realistic replica skulls and various other pieces used in the Taxidermy process. This fascinating artform combines age-old methodology and the latest 3D technology to create incredible reproductions. 
Replicas are lightweight, require no permits and allow hunters the freedom to both display their skulls and create a taxidermy piece. 
Listen to this interesting discussion to learn more.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 27 | Cost of Taxidermy

The real cost of taxidermy to a hunter is the investment into a quality piece of art that you can be proud of. As hunters, we need to ask: Do I invest in this experience that I cannot get back, or do I risk a cheap deal? 
Quality work comes at a cost, but taxidermists should provide value for money to hunters. 
 In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug unpacks the importance of considering the quality and service of taxidermy projects, and what to look out for to prevent disappointment.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 26 | Colours Variants

If you’ve hunted a Black Impala, Copper Springbuck or Golden Wildebeest, then you know about the array of colour variants and the diversity on offer in African game. 
While a contentious topic for some, there is no denying that these variations entice hunters to invest in our wildlife and pursue adventures in South Africa. 
In this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug discusses various examples and collections of colour variants, how they come into being and the impact they have on our industry.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 25 | Tiny Ten Discussion

The Tiny Ten is one of Africa’s most spectacular collections of wildlife. 
These animals may be small in stature, but Tiny Ten hunting is extremely challenging. You are exposed to a variety of environments and the target is small, agile and very aware. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug discusses the Tiny Ten experience and gives some insight into what it’s like to take on the challenge, tips on planning your hunt and advice for presentation of your trophies. 
This collection of animals is all about the hunting experience. 
Listen to the full episode on Podbean, Apple Podcasts or YouTube.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 24 | Women in the Hunting Industry

Women in Wildlife Today we celebrate Women’s Day in South Africa. 
So, for this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, we thought it was only fitting to chat to one of the most influential women in the hunting and wildlife industry in South Africa - Adri-Kitshoff Botha. 
Doug chats to her about her incredible career, some of her most memorable personal hunting experiences, and advice for those looking to enter the industry. 
Adri is certainly someone we can all look up to and learn from, and we know you will enjoy listening to her story.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 23 | Hunting for Health

Hunting for Health 
In this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug discusses the impact of hunting on health.
From the adrenaline and dopamine released while hard on the chase, to the mindfulness that comes with being present with loved ones and connected in nature - hunting has physical, mental and emotional benefits for the hunter.  
Hunting is also healthy for the land and for the genetics of our herds. We also have a conversation around the meat harvested from hunting – highlighting the benefits for our health and the health of the environment. 
If you want to improve your health and happiness, give this episode a listen.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 22 | Permits Explained

This week on Taxidermy Truths we discuss the “hangover of the hunt” – the permit application process. Doug sits down with Head of Logistics, Morgan Westcott to unpack the various types of permits and circumstances where they come into play. 
We look at all aspects of the process – from movement permits, to hunt verifications, and the different categories of export permits required for various African game. We also touch on the timeframes, validity of permits, and how to ensure a smooth process. 
While this may be seen as red tape, regulation and management in our industry is necessary. It ensures that hunting in South Africa is ethical and responsible and helps to maintain the value in the animals.   
If you have any questions around hunting permits, please contact our team on sales@splittingimagetaxidermy.co.za.

Taxidermy Truth | Episode 21 | In the Details

In this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, we get into the details. 
The details a hunter shares about his animal – the pose, the head tilt, the angle, the unique characteristics are paramount when creating a brief for the taxidermy artist. Similarly, the fine details expressed through the musculature and movement of the skin, or the wetting of the nose and eyelids is what makes the difference between average taxidermy and a work of art. 
It's all in the details – you don’t want to miss this one.