


Avian Taxidermy - Bird of Prey
The Art & Science of Avian Taxidermy:
Intensive Bird of Prey Taxidermy Workshop
Dates: October 24, 25, 26,
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Duration: Three consecutive days
Location: The ALVA studio UWA School of Design
Presented in partnership with the University of Western Australia’s School of Design.
This workshop is part of an exciting new collaboration between Preserving for the Future and UWA, supporting hands-on education in natural history and scientific artistry. A limited number of discounted places are reserved for UWA students—please contact Teori Shannon directly to request a promo code.
Overview
Designed for both emerging enthusiasts and seasoned artisans, this three-day full-mount taxidermy workshop invites you to explore the nuances of avian preservation through the study of Barn Owls, specifically sourced from rodenticide population research. With their commanding form and feather architecture, birds of prey offer a uniquely powerful canvas for mastering anatomical accuracy, lifelike presentation, and ethical artistry.
Building on techniques introduced in prior workshops, this session delves into species-specific adaptations and refined finishing methods. Under the expert guidance of Teori Shannon, participants will be equipped to transform raw specimens into striking natural history displays
What You’ll Learn
Participants will be guided step-by-step through the professional avian taxidermy workflow:
Reference Recording: Systematic documentation of specimen anatomy and proportions
Skinning & Defleshing: Precision techniques for preparing birds of prey
Skull & Scleral Ossicle Preparation: Preservation of key skeletal elements
Skin Preservation: Treatment protocols for ensuring feather integrity
Binding & Form-Making: Anatomically accurate body construction tailored to owl proportions
Natural Positioning: Artistic and structural techniques for lifelike postures
Each participant will leave with a completed, mounted Barn Owl specimen, displayed on a handcrafted wooden pedestal.
Materials Provided
Ethically sourced Barn Owl (Tyto alba) specimen (ex-rodenticide study specimens)
All necessary tools and safety equipment
Chemicals: borax, acetone, formalin
Custom wooden display pedestal
What to Bring
Pencil or pen
Notebook for sketching and notes
Camera or phone for reference photography
Participants may optionally provide their own ethically sourced avian specimen—advance notice required (minimum one month prior to workshop).
Ethics & Compliance
All specimens and materials are ethically sourced and fully compliant with Western Australian Wildlife Regulations. Specimens have been selected in partnership with conservation research and population management initiatives.
Presenter
Teori Shannon Founder, Preserving for the Future Avian Taxidermist, Educator, and Specialist in Historical Animal Preservation
Registration & Contact
Tickets processed securely via PayPal Business. For inquiries or to notify specimen contributions: preservingforthefuture@gmail.com
Craft with Purpose
Join us in expanding the boundaries of avian preservation. Through anatomical precision and artistic intention, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to engage with Western Australia's natural history while developing a powerful new set of skills.
The Art & Science of Avian Taxidermy:
Intensive Bird of Prey Taxidermy Workshop
Dates: October 24, 25, 26,
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Duration: Three consecutive days
Location: The ALVA studio UWA School of Design
Presented in partnership with the University of Western Australia’s School of Design.
This workshop is part of an exciting new collaboration between Preserving for the Future and UWA, supporting hands-on education in natural history and scientific artistry. A limited number of discounted places are reserved for UWA students—please contact Teori Shannon directly to request a promo code.
Overview
Designed for both emerging enthusiasts and seasoned artisans, this three-day full-mount taxidermy workshop invites you to explore the nuances of avian preservation through the study of Barn Owls, specifically sourced from rodenticide population research. With their commanding form and feather architecture, birds of prey offer a uniquely powerful canvas for mastering anatomical accuracy, lifelike presentation, and ethical artistry.
Building on techniques introduced in prior workshops, this session delves into species-specific adaptations and refined finishing methods. Under the expert guidance of Teori Shannon, participants will be equipped to transform raw specimens into striking natural history displays
What You’ll Learn
Participants will be guided step-by-step through the professional avian taxidermy workflow:
Reference Recording: Systematic documentation of specimen anatomy and proportions
Skinning & Defleshing: Precision techniques for preparing birds of prey
Skull & Scleral Ossicle Preparation: Preservation of key skeletal elements
Skin Preservation: Treatment protocols for ensuring feather integrity
Binding & Form-Making: Anatomically accurate body construction tailored to owl proportions
Natural Positioning: Artistic and structural techniques for lifelike postures
Each participant will leave with a completed, mounted Barn Owl specimen, displayed on a handcrafted wooden pedestal.
Materials Provided
Ethically sourced Barn Owl (Tyto alba) specimen (ex-rodenticide study specimens)
All necessary tools and safety equipment
Chemicals: borax, acetone, formalin
Custom wooden display pedestal
What to Bring
Pencil or pen
Notebook for sketching and notes
Camera or phone for reference photography
Participants may optionally provide their own ethically sourced avian specimen—advance notice required (minimum one month prior to workshop).
Ethics & Compliance
All specimens and materials are ethically sourced and fully compliant with Western Australian Wildlife Regulations. Specimens have been selected in partnership with conservation research and population management initiatives.
Presenter
Teori Shannon Founder, Preserving for the Future Avian Taxidermist, Educator, and Specialist in Historical Animal Preservation
Registration & Contact
Tickets processed securely via PayPal Business. For inquiries or to notify specimen contributions: preservingforthefuture@gmail.com
Craft with Purpose
Join us in expanding the boundaries of avian preservation. Through anatomical precision and artistic intention, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to engage with Western Australia's natural history while developing a powerful new set of skills.
If you purchase a ticket and are unable to attend a refund can, be requested up to 21 days before the class