Short Description
The Zoological Preparation Unit of the 1st Zoological Department (Vertebrates) is responsible for the conservation and preservation of animal material and other organic materials. Objects are constructed and preserved as faithfully as possible to their natural state for research and exhibition purposes.
The team works primarily with vertebrates, providing total taxidermy mounts, skeletons, skins, DNA samples, models, and other materials to preserve specimens and support research of the Museums scientific collections, where the greatest variety of specimens is housed. This includes hides, fluid preparations, and bones in boxes, some centuries old, others newly prepared, ensuring a constant supply of current objects for basic research. Furthermore, the preparators are responsible for creating new exhibits and maintaining the exhibition spaces to continually captivate visitors. This also involves preserving and promoting biodiversity.
In recent decades, the materials and techniques used in zoological preparation have changed dramatically. Where once animals were simply stuffed, today an artistically sophisticated, anatomically correct body shape is created, onto which the skin is then attached. Through lengthy processes such as skinning, fleshing, tanning, coloring, and modeling, as well as intensive drying times, a lifelike dermoplastic mount is produced for exhibition. Restoring objects and updating the exhibition spaces are high priorities to ensure that even historical specimens remain accessible and visible to the public.
The profession of zoological taxidermists is in decline, which is why the Natural History Museum of Vienna (NHM Vienna) promotes the continuing education and training of new generations. As a result, at least one apprentice is always present in the workshop with the team, learning and actively participating.
The main preparation team of the 1st Zoological Department also creates exhibits for other departments of the NHM Vienna, which are helpful and important for presenting their respective topics. Designing and implementing special exhibitions is also part of the job of the preparators.
Contact Person
Robert Illek
Research Services
The infrastructure and existing equipment of the Zoological Taxidermy unit can only be used for internal NHM Vienna purposes.
Methods & Expertise for Research Infrastructure
Manufacturing techniques to create bellows, skins, mounted or unmounted skeletons. Mazeration, freeze drying, degreasing and several casting and modeling techniques.