My Taxidermy Collection Through the Years 💀🪲
- Shannon Kira Mcmillan
- Aug 28, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 5, 2025
Since 2021, I have been building my own taxidermy and natural history collection, starting with small specimens and gradually expanding to a wider range of pieces. This personal project has been shaped by my love of natural history and inspiration from Wollaton Hall’s taxidermy displays, which first sparked my interest in how collections are cared for and presented.
Through curating and maintaining this collection, I have gained insight into the practical and ethical responsibilities involved in collections care. The process has strengthened my appreciation for the importance of conservation standards, documentation, and interpretation in making collections meaningful and accessible.
Collection progression displayed left to right: 2025 → 2021
💀 See more on my Instagram: @BonesByShannon 🪲
Key Skills Gained:
🪶 Responsible Collecting – Ethical sourcing and provenance recording for transparency and research value
🔍 Observation & Analysis – Detailed specimen examination and understanding curatorial interpretation
🧴 Preservation Practice – Preventive cleaning, condition monitoring, and maintaining structural stability
📷 Documentation & Archiving – High-quality specimen photography and structured cataloguing aligned with professional standards
☠️ Natural History Knowledge – Biodiversity awareness and connecting collections to cultural and scientific themes
🏛️ Museum-Relevant Skills – Conservation practice, archival documentation, interpretation development, and embedding ethical curatorial principles
🧩 Problem-Solving – Adapting preservation methods, learning through trial and reflection, and managing preparation challenges
🎨 Professional Skills – Attention to detail, systematic organization, patience, and communicating specialist knowledge accessibly
This experience has deepened my aspiration to work professionally in collections care and archiving. While I have a particular passion for natural history, I am equally eager to support and learn from all types of collections—including Georgian, Tudor, religious and theological, and fashion history collections.
When sharing images of my taxidermy collection online, I am mindful of ethical considerations and the sensitivities involved in displaying animal specimens. I aim to present my collection responsibly, ensuring it reflects both my enthusiasm for natural history and my respect for heritage practices.
I look forward to continuing my journey in collections care and natural history, with the hope of one day acquiring my dream piece: a beautifully preserved stuffed raven. 🖤
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✨ Learn more about my work and aspirations here: My Portfolio
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