Specimen Preparation & Handling Guidelines

The following policy outlines how specimens are evaluated and handled once they are submitted to Point & Frame Taxidermy.

If you are looking for instructions on how to properly prepare or ship your bird, please refer to the Shipping Guide page. These resources explain how to store, freeze, and transport specimens to achieve the best possible result.

Last updated: 03/13/2026

Point & Frame Taxidermy works with natural specimens to create custom flat feather mounts. The condition and care of the specimen provided directly affects the quality of the finished piece.

Condition of Specimens

The quality of the final mount depends heavily on the condition of the specimen provided.

Birds or feathers should be:

• Handled carefully after harvest
• Frozen as soon as possible
• Protected from damage to feathers, wings, and skin
• Stored in a sealed plastic bag to prevent freezer burn

Improper storage or damage prior to arrival may limit the quality of the final mount.

Pre-Existing Damage

Point & Frame Taxidermy will make every effort to produce the best possible result. However, damage that occurred before the specimen was received may remain visible in the final piece.

This may include:

• Broken feathers
• Missing feathers
• Blood staining
• Shot damage
• Freezer burn or deterioration

Because each specimen is unique, complete restoration of damaged areas may not always be possible.

Refusal of Specimens

Specimens that are severely damaged, decomposed, improperly stored, or otherwise unsuitable for mounting may be refused.

If a specimen cannot be mounted due to condition issues, the client will be notified.

Legal Responsibility

Clients are responsible for ensuring that all wildlife specimens submitted comply with local, state, and federal wildlife regulations.

Point & Frame Taxidermy assumes no responsibility for illegally obtained wildlife or specimens that cannot legally be possessed.

Handling Risk

While every reasonable effort is made to handle specimens with care, natural materials carry inherent risks during the mounting process.

Point & Frame Taxidermy cannot guarantee against unexpected deterioration, damage, or material failure that may occur due to the natural condition of the specimen.