Natural History & Taxidermy for sale

Taxidermy birds, mammals and insects, skulls and skeletons, collector seashells, Mediterranean coral jewellery, carved stone skulls and figures, and hand-painted ostrich eggs.

What this section contains

A broad natural history section: full body taxidermy mounts of birds, bats and insects; mammal skulls and carved skulls; study skins; resin replica skulls; collector seashells such as cowries, cones and conchs; Mediterranean red coral set in silver as necklaces, earrings and rings; amber rosaries; carved crystal and stone figures; and hand-painted ostrich eggs. Most pieces here are between €400 and €2,000.

Species and CITES

Titles usually give the scientific name, for example Balearica regulorum, and many say whether the species is Non-CITES or listed under a CITES Appendix. CITES is the international agreement that regulates trade in protected species. Non-CITES species can generally be traded freely. Appendix-listed species need documentation for trade and cross-border movement, and the rules for movement within the EU differ from those for shipping outside it. If you live outside the EU, check your country's import rules before ordering any animal specimen, coral or shell.

Reading a listing

Condition is given as New, Good condition, Natural or Engraved; shells are sometimes graded with collector terms such as GEM or Fine.
Origin is where the specimen or piece comes from, for example Italy for coral or Madagascar and the Philippines for shells.
Replica items, such as resin skulls, say so in the title.
Sizes are listed as height, width and depth in cm.

Care

Keep taxidermy out of direct sun, which fades feathers and fur, and away from damp. A glass dome or case protects against dust and insects. Coral and amber are soft, so store them apart from harder jewellery and keep them away from perfume and chemicals.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'Non-CITES species' mean on a taxidermy listing?

It means the species is not listed under CITES, the international convention that controls trade in protected plants and animals, so it can generally be traded and shipped without CITES paperwork. Species listed in CITES Appendix I, II or III need documentation. Even for non-CITES species, some countries have their own import rules, so check yours if you live outside the EU.

Can taxidermy be shipped outside the EU?

Sometimes, but it depends on the species and the destination. Protected species listed under CITES need permits to cross borders, and many countries also apply their own animal-product and veterinary rules. Before ordering a mount, skull or skin for delivery outside the EU, check your country's customs and wildlife import rules.

What is Mediterranean red coral?

Mediterranean red coral (Corallium rubrum) is a precious coral harvested in the Mediterranean and worked into jewellery for centuries, especially in southern Italy. It ranges from pale pink to deep red. Coral is soft and porous, so keep it away from perfume, cosmetics and household cleaners, and wipe it with a soft damp cloth after wearing.

How should I care for a taxidermy mount?

Display mounts out of direct sunlight, which fades feathers and fur, and away from radiators and damp rooms. Dust gently with a soft brush or low-power air. A glass dome or cabinet keeps out dust and insects. Check occasionally for signs of pests, such as loose hairs or fine powder beneath the mount.