The Beauty of African Plains Game Taxidermy: Capturing Nature’s Most Iconic Species

African plains game are among the most admired animals on the continent — elegant, powerful, and central to every safari experience. At Collett’s Wildlife Artistry, we see these animals not just as trophies, but as symbols of Africa’s vast wilderness. Through expert plains game taxidermy, we transform each trophy into a lifelike tribute that preserves the animal’s beauty and the hunter’s memory for generations.

Why Plains Game Hold a Special Place in African Hunting

When hunters dream of an African safari, it’s often the plains game species that define their journey. From the towering greater kudu with its spiraled horns to the lightning-fast impala, each species has a unique character and presence. These animals carry the history of Africa’s landscape — the grasslands, the mopane forests, the river valleys, and the endless open plains.

Plains game hunting is not simply about sport; it is about immersion in Africa’s raw beauty. The connection between hunter, land, and wildlife is powerful — and our work ensures that connection is preserved.

The Importance of Accuracy and Anatomy in Plains Game Taxidermy

Plains game may seem common, but mounting them correctly is anything but simple. Each species has distinct anatomical features, muscle structure, skin texture, and natural posture. A kudu must show alert grace, while a sable requires regal dominance. A wildebeest demands rugged strength, while a bushbuck carries quiet elegance.

At Collett’s Wildlife Artistry, our team studies each species in detail — movement patterns, muscle tone, horn structure, and facial expression. This dedication allows us to create mounts that look truly alive, capturing the soul of the animal rather than just its form.

Kudu: The Icon of African Safaris

The greater kudu is often called the “grey ghost” for its mysterious and majestic nature. Its tall frame and elegant spiraled horns make it one of the most coveted plains game trophies in South Africa and Zimbabwe.

In taxidermy, getting a kudu right means emphasizing its muscular neckline, soft facial contours, and proud stance. Our shoulder and pedestal mounts highlight the animal’s natural curves and commanding presence.

Impala: Grace and Beauty in Motion

The impala is one of the most commonly hunted species in Africa, but also one of the most deceptively difficult to mount. Their smooth skin, delicate features, and agile expressions require precision and finesse.

A great impala mount should feel alive — light, alert, and graceful. We replicate the subtle head tilt, ear positioning, and natural poise that makes this species so iconic.

Gemsbok and Oryx: Power of the Desert

Known for their long, straight horns and bold markings, gemsbok are among Africa’s most striking plains game animals. Their coloration requires detailed airbrushing, and their dense hides must be handled with expert technique to ensure smooth, lifelike results.

Our team specializes in full-body gemsbok mounts that reflect their natural environment — desert strength, endurance, and confidence.

Wildebeest: Rugged, Wild, and Unforgettable

The blue wildebeest, sometimes called “the clown of Africa,” is full of character and raw energy. Their shaggy manes, heavy shoulders, and expressive faces make them fantastic shoulder mounts.

However, their skin is thick and challenging, requiring specialized tanning and sculpting. At our Zimbabwe workshop, we’ve perfected techniques to bring out the wildebeest’s true nature — rugged, bold, and unmistakably wild.

Sable Antelope: Royalty of the Plains

Few animals command respect like the sable. Its sweeping horns, dark coat, and powerful stature make it a favourite for collectors worldwide.

A sable mount must reflect nobility. We sculpt deeper musculature, refine the chin and neckline, and recreate the species’ intense, captivating stare. The result is a mount that feels heroic — a true centrepiece in any trophy room.

How Collett’s Wildlife Artistry Captures Life, Not Just Form

Our approach goes beyond technical skill. We aim to create emotional realism — a mount that transports you back to the moment of the hunt. The wind, the grass, the thrill of the pursuit — all of it captured in one lifelike work of art.

• Every mount is hand-finished with species-specific detail
• We reference live animals and field photos extensively
• Our forms are custom-shaped to match each trophy
• All tanning is done in-house for ultimate quality control
• We use state-of-the-art preservation techniques to ensure longevity

A Celebration of Africa’s Wildlife

Plains game represent the heart of African safaris — iconic, diverse, and profoundly beautiful. Through expert craftsmanship, we ensure these animals are honoured with the dignity and artistry they deserve.

At Collett’s Wildlife Artistry, every mount tells a story — your story — and preserves a piece of Africa for generations to come.

Ready to preserve your plains game trophies with world-class craftsmanship?

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