Nate Emmons holds his favorite taxidermy piece, a longhorn skull mount.
Sixteen-year-old Nate Emmons lives in rural Fayette, Ohio, where his passion for wildlife was widely recognized among his friends and family. Consequently, when the Evergreen FFA Chapter’s advisor, Alexis Howell, announced that all Greenhands must develop a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) plan, Emmons eagerly decided to explore taxidermy, a craft he recently became curious about.
Howell initially supported Emmons’ choice but emphasized the importance of understanding the ethical implications involved. Taking this advice seriously, he dedicated a few weeks to researching taxidermy. During this time, Emmons watched online videos and educated himself about proper specimen handling and preservation techniques.
Emmons chose to start with something manageable. One morning, he began working on his neighbor’s deer head. First, he ensured it was permissible to use the specimen and then gathered the necessary supplies, including a basic taxidermy kit and preservation chemicals. Although his parents were initially apprehensive, they ultimately agreed to let him use the lean-to space adjacent to their garage as his workspace.
Emmons’ cleanest and brightest deer skull mount he has completed so far.
Emmons’ first attempt proved challenging. He struggled with the process of prepping the deer and often found himself frustrated. His initial results were far from perfect, with the deer appearing uneven and awkward. Recognizing he needed more guidance, Emmons reached out to a taxidermist in southern Ohio, who kindly agreed to mentor him. This experienced taxidermist provided invaluable insights and practical tips, which significantly helped Emmons refine his technique.
After several attempts and many late nights spent in the lean-to, Emmons’ skills gradually improved. He learned to handle specimens more effectively and enhanced his mounting techniques. His subsequent projects, which included additional deer mounts and skull mounts, demonstrated marked improvement.
When Howell visited for a summer SAE review, Emmons proudly set up a display showcasing his work. He included photographs of the deer mounts and skull mounts and thoroughly explained the methods and ethical considerations behind each piece. Howell appreciated his dedication and progress, acknowledging the hard work he invested in mastering a new skill.
Emmons has received positive feedback for both his craftsmanship and commitment. His parents were proud of his perseverance and the respect he showed for the specimens. Ultimately, through his SAE, Emmons not only acquired valuable skills but also developed a deeper appreciation for wildlife, transforming his curiosity into a meaningful and rewarding experience.
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