Grant Museum of Zoology embarks on a major taxidermy conservation project

This week [12-15 June], the Grant Museum of Zoology, UCL, embarks on a major conservation project to restore and renew its taxidermy collection. The project titled â?'Fluff it Up: Make Taxidermy Great Againâ'' will see many of the museumsâ?- historic specimens removed from their displays, and replaced with toy stuffed animals to highlight the important role of taxidermy conservation. Contrary to popular belief taxidermy does not involve stuffing an animal skin. â'It is in fact a scientific art, requiring knowledge of anatomy and morphology, craftsmanship and accuracy to arrange, preserve and restore real animal skin over pre-made forms of the animalâ''s shape. â' Many of the specimens at the museum are over a century old, and require specialist attention because of wear and tear over time. â?'Given the rarity of the species in the wild, as well as the historic value of nineteenth and early twentieth century taxidermy, they would essentially be impossible to replace. This project will allow us to protect our incredible specimens for the long-term future.â'' says Jack Ashby, Manager of the Grant Museum of Zoology, part of UCL Culture.