Representing Taxidermists across the UK

Who we are

Founded in 1976, the Guild of Taxidermists was formed to promote the highest standards of taxidermy and to raise awareness of this highly skilled practice throughout the United Kingdom.

We are committed to the continued and progressive advancement of taxidermy as both an art and a science, and to encouraging public understanding and appreciation of its role in education, heritage, and conservation.

Our Mission

We work to:

Uphold Professional Standards
Through training, guidance, and a formal credit-based qualification system, the Guild encourages excellence in craftsmanship, anatomical accuracy, and ethical practice.

Support Legal and Sustainable Taxidermy

We actively collaborate with government agencies, conservation organisations, the police, and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) to promote legal and sustainable practices. The Guild is committed to helping combat wildlife crime and supports regulations such as the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and CITES.

Encourage Education and Training

We host annual events that feature demonstrations and lectures. We run a mentorship scheme where qualified members give 1:1 guidance and training. Our annual journal, Taxidermist features articles, interviews, and technical information.

Foster Community and Recognition

Our annual conferences and seminars provide members with the opportunity to showcase their work, receive expert feedback, and connect with fellow taxidermy practitioners. The Guild also operates a tiered qualification system based on credits, which are awarded for individual pieces that meet high standards of quality. This system allows members to progress to Accredited and Specialist Member status and the prestigious title of Master Taxidermist.

Membership

The Guild welcomes all who are interested in taxidermy—from beginners and hobbyists to professionals and museum specialists. Members benefit from:

Legal and professional support
Training and development opportunities
Access to members-only forums and resources
Eligibility to earn recognised taxidermy qualifications
Inclusion in the Guild’s directory of members
A subscription to our annual journal
Discounted rates for events and conferences

Membership is available to individuals aged 16 and over, with a Junior Membership available for those under 16.

Why become a member of the Guild of Taxidermists?

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Member Benefits

Members enjoy full access to the members’ section of the website, receive the Guild’s annual journal, are included in the Guild’s insurance scheme, and have opportunities to gain accreditation and take part in competitions.

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Have your say

The Guild is run by members for the members, please get in touch if you can help with the running of the Guild

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Learn Taxidermy

Our annual events and resources allow you to learn from some of the UK’s and Europe’s leading taxidermists through expert-led lectures, hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and in-depth seminars and written articles.

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Get Listed

The Guild maintains an official directory of members credits and qualifications to help museums, educational institutions, collectors, and members of the public find trusted and skilled taxidermists.

This list highlights Accredited Members—those who have demonstrated high standards of all round workmanship and professionalism.