This big diving duck, the largest of its genus, is wary and swift in flight, earning the respect of sportsmen. It is a characteristic bird of prairie marshes in summer and saltwater bays in winter. Canvasbacks dive for their food, mainly the bases and roots of plants growing underwater. Its specific name of valisineria refers to the technical name of wild celery, an aquatic...

To my taxidermy family, join me in paying tribute to our fellow taxidermist and co-worker, Phil Helms who passed away August 14, 2022. Phil was born on January 7, 1959. He leaves behind his wife Sheila, daughter Brook, son Nicolas, and new baby granddaughter, Kinsley Rae. Phil was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early in 2021 and fought hard through difficult...

The historical city of Springfield, Missouri, was again the location of the 2022 World Taxidermy and Fish Carving Championships®. Many of you reading this account were there, and for those who could not attend, I here offer you my thoughts and a recap. Two big WTC events had been held there, in 2015 and 2019, before the infamous Covid-19 outbreak that brought our world...

In this preparation protocol, we describe the practical approach to the preparation process of an Aldabra giant tortoise. The main focus is the particular difficulties of preparing specimens of this species. Firstly, the heavy weight of the animal requires a stable construction and handling considerations during the working process. Secondly, the requirements for tanning a...