In this episode, Nikki Scheer, owner of Twisted Antler Taxidermy and Pro Staff of Huntin' Wives, discusses all things taxidermy. As someone who grew up hunting pheasants in NE with GSP's, she later found interest in the art of taxidermy. Nikki walks us through how to best prepare freshly harvested birds in the field for an ideal mount. She also discusses tips and insight for big game and fish mounts and what's important to look for in a good taxidermist. 7:40 Nikki’s story 9:00 Growing up bird hunting 10:40 Bird Dogs 12:40 Big game hunting 13:45 Huntin’ Wives 14:50 Starting out in taxidermy 17:20 Appreciation of art, people and education 19:50 Experience in taxidermy 20:50 European mount 21:20 Easiest to work on 22:05 Most difficult to work on 23:35 Best way to prep a bird for mount after hunt 24:50 How to reduce risk of freezer burn 25:20 Keeping air from bird 27:20 Working on birds 31:00 Meat or no meat 32:40 Field dressing big game for mount 35:10 Taxidermist pet peeve 36:10 How to find a good taxidermist 38:30 Beetles 40:30 Degreasing and bleaching 42:30 Shipping for mount 44:45 Fish mounts 46:20 Estimated taxidermy costs 48:40 Getting to know your taxidermist 50:40 What does it take to become a taxidermist 52:10 Pets 55:30 How to connect with Nikki -------------------------------------- Support this podcast on Patreon Thank you to our Sponsors: Dakota283 Kennels (use promo code birddogbabe for 10% discount) Xcel Shooting Sports – free gun slip ($90 value) with purchase of any shotgun Connect with Nikki: Instagram Twisted Antler Taxidermy Studio   Connect with Courtney Follow Bird Dog Babe: Instagram Facebook YouTube