Those interested in becoming a taxidermist in Pennsylvania have until March 4, to submit a completed application and $50 test fee to their local Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer (WCO) for the upcoming exams that will be conducted in Huntingdon.  Applications may be obtained from the Game Commission's Harrisburg headquarters by calling 717-783-8164.

After an application is received, individuals will be sent a letter containing the date and time to report for the exam, which is scheduled for the week of April 11, at the agency's Southcentral Region Office in Huntingdon, Huntingdon County.

The examination consists of three parts, including the presentation of five specimens prepared by the applicant within the past three years. Required specimens for the general category permit include an antlered white-tailed deer head; a small mammal; one upland game bird; a duck or other waterfowl; and a fish. Birds must be mounted with feet and legs visible. All specimens must be representative of wildlife found in Pennsylvania.

The second phase of the testing process is a written examination on taxidermy methods and procedures. The third portion requires applicants to actually perform some part of the taxidermy process on a selected specimen. Passing scores must be attained on all three parts of the examination.  In Pennsylvania, all persons performing taxidermy work for others must have a permit issued by the Game Commission.

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