The cost of a full body turkey mount can vary significantly depending on several factors. Understanding these factors will help you budget effectively and make informed decisions when choosing a taxidermist. This guide breaks down the price components and answers frequently asked questions to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
What Factors Influence the Price of a Full Body Turkey Mount?
Several key elements contribute to the final price of a full body turkey mount:
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Taxidermist's Experience and Reputation: Highly skilled and reputable taxidermists with extensive experience mounting turkeys often charge more. Their expertise ensures a higher-quality, more lifelike mount. Look for taxidermists with strong portfolios and positive reviews.
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Complexity of the Pose: A more intricate or challenging pose, such as a turkey in mid-stride or displaying its feathers, will generally increase the cost. Simple poses, like a bird standing, tend to be less expensive.
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Size and Species of Turkey: Larger turkeys or those with exceptional plumage require more time, materials, and effort, leading to a higher price tag. The species also matters; some rarer breeds may command a premium.
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Location: Geographic location plays a role. Taxidermists in areas with a higher cost of living may charge more for their services.
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Additional Features: Adding features like custom bases, scenic backdrops, or intricate details to the mount can significantly increase the total cost.
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Mannequin Quality: The quality of the foam mannequin used for the mount influences the final product's realism and durability. Higher-quality mannequins are more expensive.
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Turnaround Time: Taxidermists who offer faster turnaround times may charge a premium for their expedited service.
How Much Does a Full Body Turkey Mount Typically Cost?
The average price for a full body turkey mount in the United States ranges from $400 to $800 or more. However, prices can easily exceed $1000 depending on the factors mentioned above. It's essential to obtain multiple quotes from different taxidermists to compare pricing and services.
What is Included in the Price of a Turkey Mount?
Typically, the price of a full body turkey mount includes:
- Preparation of the Bird: This involves skinning, fleshing, tanning, and preserving the bird's skin and feathers.
- Mounting the Bird on a Mannequin: The taxidermist carefully positions the skin onto a foam mannequin to recreate a lifelike pose.
- Finishing and Detailing: This includes careful feather placement, eye insertion, beak shaping, and any other necessary details to make the mount look realistic.
How to Find a Reputable Taxidermist?
Finding a skilled and reliable taxidermist is crucial for achieving a high-quality mount. Here's how:
- Ask for Referrals: Contact hunters, sporting goods stores, or wildlife organizations for recommendations.
- Check Online Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients on websites like Yelp or Google My Business.
- View a Portfolio: Examine the taxidermist's previous work to assess their skill and style.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about their process, pricing, and turnaround time.
What are the Additional Costs I Should Consider?
Beyond the base price, consider these potential additional costs:
- Shipping Costs: If you need to ship your bird to the taxidermist, factor in shipping expenses.
- Sales Tax: Sales tax may apply depending on your location.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Turkey Mount Back?
The turnaround time for a full body turkey mount can vary depending on the taxidermist's workload and the complexity of the mount. Expect a timeframe of anywhere from several months to over a year. It is best to discuss this with your taxidermist upfront.
By carefully considering these factors and taking the time to find a reputable taxidermist, you can ensure you receive a high-quality, lifelike full body turkey mount that you'll cherish for years to come. Remember to always get multiple quotes and clearly communicate your expectations and budget.
