Competitions

I was wondering if I was entering a competition should I use artificial heads or do I need to use the real head or is there any difference.

Thanks

Return to Bird Taxidermy Category Menu

Optional

I've seen it done both ways. It depends on the type of bird you are doing. I never use artificial on game birds, but always on waterfowl. Shrinkage is what you are concerned about. Usually small ducks like teal that have a black bill usually will not show enough shrinkage to notice. Also depends on what level of competition you are entering. My advice would be to learn how to do it with artificial heads. To me, it is a LOT easier to paint the bill without it being attached to the bird - no tape no mess no overspray to worry about. Plus, if you mess up the paint job and it is not attached to the bird, it is easily repainted. Good Luck !