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Hi Andrew
John gave you the email so here's the address:
Fauna & Flora CHB Co., Inc.
c/o John Meehan III
152-31 135th Ave.
Jamaica, New York 11434
John has done an excellent job for me and his information before and after my last hunt was extremely helpful. What he said could happen: happened. He took care of a concern in a flash, so we're back to smooth sailing. Just awaiting my CITES permit. As for the Taxidermy query; there's always options. Some must leave their trophies in Africa, as that is a stretch financially, the savings amount to having shoulder mounts done as opposed to skull or european mounts. Not all US Taxidermists, in fact not many are certified by the US Gov't to import and house foriegn game. You must have a US Fish and Wildlife permit (Federal); USDA and Dept of Agriculture to receive and store/mount game that could possibly carry disease. All primates and swine fall under USDA and require special handling. All other game must be dipped (skins) and boiled (skulls/horns). Our Gov't now insists this be repeated upon entry into the US Taxidermists shop. Those that omit or aren't done properly overseas run the risk of importing Ebola virus, Anthrax, and a host of other dread diseases ect. Personally, I won't take that chance. It is a great event to see and hunt Africa. Those of you that have been there understand. I want be able to return. That aside, US Taxidermy of quality costs more. Why? Several reasons. 1. Materials: we have a tremendous choice of forms today. Anything from Bush Baby to Elephant. Forms are made of polyurethane and this is increasing daily (thank you big oil companies!). Glass eyes: Highest quality. Some German; some US made. Tanning (home or commercial) is excellent in the US, some of the best. Everything down to thread and needle. 2. Skill: today's Taxidermists, the top ones are Artists. They no longer "stuff things." They bring game back to life, at least if they're good. Top artists charge top artist pay. I would tell anyone returning from safari to have at least one mount done here. Pick their favorite animal. 3. Cost of living in the US. It costs more here than Africa. However, I do not mean to disrespect Africa or those that live there. I wish I lived in Africa. I'd be quite happy. So, if you want to have control over your Taxidermy work; have the option of mounting one animal at a time (some studio's may not offer this, but most will if you ask. Keep in mind to be responsible. If you say "mount one every two months" then pick up your mount when they call and don't leave them hanging for six months) ship your capes and skulls home. If you can't afford this, keep in mind it is not cheap shipping home completed mounts either. Your savings might go out the window. If anyone has questions or concerns, I'll be glad to address them. You are welcome to email me direct, or get my work phone off my web site. Good hunting, grayghost
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