Shoulder Mount Taxidermy

Shoulder mount taxidermy, also known as cape mount taxidermy, is the most popular African taxidermy option which utilises the cape skin and the skull and horns.

Make sure you tell your taxidermist your preference regarding having the horns blackened, polished or left looking natural.
You will need to inform your taxidermist which direction you would like the head to face. This may be important in creating a balanced look in your trophy room with some heads mounted straight with others going left and right. It may also be an issue where space is tight. Having the head turned is important for shoulder mounts of some species like sable, as the horns may extend beyond the back of the mount.
Do you want bullet holes and other similar damage repaired if possible?
If your trophy animal has a natural disfigurement such as only one eye, a drooping ear etc, let your taxidermist know if you want it to be mounted like this or corrected (where possible).
These mounts are generally designed to go directly on or against a wall - the back of the mount is board or felt with hanging holes. If you prefer, they can be mounted on a wooden shield, perhaps adding a small plaque with the date and place the animal was taken.
Shoulder mounts may also be designed to sit on a pedestal or base that will go against the wall.

Shoulder Mount Taxidermy

Cape Buffalo Shoulder Mount - photo Lifeform Taxidermy

Sable Shoulder Mount - photo Lifeform Taxidermy

Impala Shoulder Mount - photo Lifeform Taxidermy

Hippo Shoulder Mount - photo Lifeform Taxidermy

Half Mount Taxidermy

These mounts are essentially the front half of the animal including the front legs.
As with shoulder mounts, the back of a half mount is board or felt, so not to be seen.
Mounted against a wall, usually at ground level, they give the impression of an animal emerging from vegetation or in the case of a warthog, out of his burrow.
A half mount can also be made to display on a wall. This involves much of the chest being flat against the wall, no front legs and the head angled back or straight out from the chest.