Getting trophies back into the states...

[Mr. 16 gauge]

So once the safari is done, how difficult is it to get the heads back into the States? I've heard that there can be some difficulty, and that theft is a major problem.....is this true? Also, is it easier to have the capes salted and brought back to be mounted here, or is it wiser to have it done in the country of origin and then shipped here in to the States?

Finally, what are the average costs of having the heads mounted in Africa (I'm thinking around $500/head?)

Thanks in advance...............

[grayghost]

Depends upon which country. RSA & Zim we average 3.5-4 months. Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique, Namibia etc., can take longer as remote camps bring out trophies at the end of the season. It's not normal to have trophies stolen. Things can happen but that would be on the rare side. I would highly recommend you ship green salted capes and hides home. Have them mounted here as you can communicate via phone and receive updates. Freezed tanned capes and have them mounted piecemeal. What you save in African taxidermy you will lose in shipping charges. I paid $3,000 just for one mounted Lion shipment several years ago. Dip/pack will run you around $100 per animal (that is the disinfecting skins, boiling skulls process). I have Customs brokers that handle all clients shipments from Africa to here at home. They also must be accepted by a licensed Tannery or Taxidermist. Many options, but making sound choices can save headaches and money. Feel free to email me.
grayghost

[1Shot2Kills]

Originally Posted by Mr. 16 gauge

and that theft is a major problem......

Not true, I'm curious where you heard such a thing....

[Mr. 16 gauge]

Not true, I'm curious where you heard such a thing....

Read it somewhere.....can't remember if it was on the internet or in a magazine some place.

[1Shot2Kills]

Originally Posted by Mr. 16 gauge

Read it somewhere.....can't remember if it was on the internet or in a magazine some place.

I assume the issue wasn't with US customs; correct?

[grayghost]

Getting trophies back from International destinations can be easy or difficult, so before you go, discuss this with a booking agent. Guides/PH's are not the shipper, nor do they control export permits, so it is important to have someone here at home who deals with all facets of hunting. Bad things can and do happen on occasion, but less chance of that if you engage with reputable shipping firms.