It's easy to think of the taxidermist as a lone wolf, working in isolation in his shop to complete his clients' mounts. While that's certainly true some of the time, in actuality the taxidermist has an increasing number of options available in terms of networking and cooperation.

One of the most important tools in the taxidermist's networking kit is the professional association. Members of a state or national taxidermy association have the tremendous advantage of being able to meet and compare notes with other professionals at conventions and competitions. While the independent taxidermist exists in a locally competitive market, when he or she meets taxidermists from other regions around the nation and world, an astonishing amount of sharing can take place. Many taxidermists are only too happy to explain a new technique that results in a better, more profitable product --and are just as likely to ask for tips in return. Relationships forged at conventions and competitions can result in direct business as well, as taxidermists might be looking for a qualified professional to whom he or she can refer clients whose needs go beyond his or her abilities.

Taxidermists who operate in different regions can also call upon each other to help prepare a mount. If a taxidermist in New York knows one of his or her clients is going hunting in Montana, they will likely recommend that the hunter take his kill to a local taxidermist to prepare it properly for shipping. The Montana taxidermist will very likely be someone the New York taxidermist has met at a convention or competition, and whose work they trust.

Taxidermy, though a skilled trade that has evolved over the years, still has a bit of an old-world cachet about it. It might be surprising, therefore, to note that online taxidermy groups thrive, and are an excellent source of give-and-take advice and mentoring. As social networking online grows, taxidermists are popping up on MySpace, Facebook, YouTube and other popular sites.

The best way for a taxidermist to take advantage of the networking opportunities out there is to consult with experienced taxidermists who have already blazed that trail. By receiving instruction in this and other important sidelights in the taxidermy world, an aspiring taxidermist can greatly increase his or her visibility, marketability, and profitability.