Home taxidermy workshop

Hunters and anglers, country sports estates, collectors, people with ethically sourced or legally obtained specimens, and interior designers looking for natural display pieces.

A fixed price per piece, depending on species and size, often with a deposit upfront. Repeat work comes from shooting seasons and word of mouth.

• Patient, precise hand work
• An eye for anatomy and natural poses
• Customer service and honest communication about timescales

• Rules on wild birds and protected species: check what you can legally sell, and whether registration or paperwork is needed for certain species
• Imported or CITES-listed species may need extra documents, check with the relevant government body
• Animal by-product and waste disposal rules, check with your local council or the relevant agency
• Whether you need permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council to work from home
• Smells, chemicals and sharp tools: check ventilation, safe storage and insurance, including public liability

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on tools, preservation materials, workshop setup and insurance. Estimates vary with the space you already have and the kinds of specimens you plan to mount.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £300 to £1,500, depending on how many commissions you complete, the species and size of pieces, and your pricing. The estimate assumes from about 10 hours a week.

Check the rules on wild birds and protected species, including what you can legally sell and what paperwork is needed. Also check CITES documents for imported species, animal by-product and waste disposal rules, and home-working permission.