Taxidermists in Ouray County, Colorado

Ouray County presents unique challenges for local taxidermy due to the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains. Hunters coming out of the Uncompahgre National Forest often need a shop nearby to handle trophies from high-altitude elk or mule deer hunts. Having a professional close to the field helps ensure the cape is handled correctly before the meat reaches the processor.

Ridgway currently serves as the primary hub for these services in the county. Ridgway Taxidermy handles local mounts, providing a convenient drop-off point for those hunting the surrounding basins. This prevents the need for long hauls to Montrose or Delta while the hide is still fresh.

1 taxidermist in Ouray County

Serving Ridgway.

Ridgway Taxidermy

Taxidermist VerifiedClosed

Ridgway, CO

Call Directions View profile

Using taxidermists in Ouray County

A taxidermist takes your cape and antlers, preps and tans the hide, then mounts the animal on a form. Most shops want the cape caped out and frozen, or the whole head delivered cold and unfrozen within a day or two of the kill.

What to ask before you commit

What is your current turnaround time, in months?
Do you tan in-house or send hides out?
What deposit do you require, and is it applied to the final price?
Can I see finished mounts of the same species?
How should I care for the cape before I bring it in?

What it usually costs

Shoulder mounts commonly run several hundred to well over a thousand dollars depending on species, form and finish work. European mounts are typically the least expensive option. Deposits of 30-50% are standard.

Timing matters

Get the cape cold fast. Do not salt or freeze a cape you plan to have mounted without asking the shop first — hair slip from a warm hide is the single most common ruined mount.