The art and science of taxidermy involves preserving an animal's body via mounting or stuffing, for the purpose of display or study. The practice has deep roots in Elgin County through its ties to the local hunting and angling community, particularly in the Belmont area where the Mapleton Cheese and Taxidermy shop is located. We were very excited to meet recently with Bear of Bear's Taxidermy, a new business that will carry on the proud tradition while incorporating new techniques!
Following a corporate career in various management positions, Bear Donaghy decided to turn his recreational hobby into a full-time business from his property in Belmont, where he has lived for the past 14 years. He first became interested in the hobby through his wife's interest in art pieces that incorporate animal skulls and bones. Bear resolved that he could create even better creative installations, and when combined with his love of the outdoors it was a natural fit to move into taxidermy.
A hunter and angler himself, Bear recognizes the key role played by those activities in maintaining strong animal populations and ensuring that the landscape is sustainable. He is passionate about legal and ethical harvesting practices and maintains a license to operate.
Bear hit the ground running in the community, connecting with Dave Snook, longtime owner of Mapleton Cheese and Taxidermy, for insights, and he is quickly building a local clientele among the area's hunting community. His unique and artistic offerings, pictured below, differ from more traditional taxidermists and include soft mounts, pack mounts, and bird dead mounts. There are so many options for the cozy den or man cave and Bear can work with you to create the perfect piece!
Bear's Taxidermy is a full-service taxidermy and tanning studio that focuses on mammals and birds. He is open for business and ready to discuss your next project! Please join us in welcoming Bear to the Elgin County business community, we look forward to working with him in the future.
Bear's Taxidermy
106 Louise St., Belmont, ON
519-644-2815
Email: bearstaxidermy@gmail.com
Shop open weekdays from 9am-5pm, weekends by appointment
