Whitetail, Elk, Exotics & More: What We Accept This Season

One of the most common questions we get this time of year: "Do you mount [species]?" The short answer is almost always yes. Kingwood Taxidermy has been preserving trophies for hunters across the Kingwood and greater Houston area for years, and we've worked with just about every species a Texas hunter is likely to bring through the door. Here's a complete breakdown of what we accept, what mount types are available for each, and what you should know before you drop off. ## Whitetail Deer — The Texas Staple Whitetail is the most common mount we see, and for good reason. Texas has some of the best whitetail hunting in the country, and a well-done shoulder mount is a piece you'll display for decades. **Mount options:** - **Shoulder mount** — the classic. Starting at $720 for standard form, $810 for premium. - **European mount** — skull and antlers, cleaned and whitened. $180, optional display plaque +$35. - **Life-size** — for truly exceptional animals or unique poses. **Tips for whitetail:** - Cape generously — leave plenty of hide behind the shoulders. - Don't cut up the throat. This is the most common mistake we see. - If you're not sure how to cape, bring the whole animal and we'll handle it. ## Mule Deer Mule deer are increasingly popular in Texas, especially for hunters who travel west for the rut. Their larger ears and distinctive face require a skilled hand to get right. **Pricing:** $900 standard / $1,080 premium shoulder mount. Mule deer hides can be more delicate than whitetail, so proper field care is especially important. Cool the cape quickly and avoid dragging. ## Elk An elk mount is a statement piece. These are large, impressive animals, and a quality shoulder mount commands attention in any room. **Pricing:** $1,525 standard / $1,890 premium shoulder mount. European mount at $360. Because of their size, elk require more wall space and a heavier mounting system. We'll walk you through the logistics at drop-off so you're prepared for installation. ## Pronghorn Pronghorn are one of the most underrated trophy animals in North America — fast, sharp-eyed, and genuinely challenging to hunt. Their unique horns and striking facial markings make for a beautiful mount. **Pricing:** $900 standard / $990 premium shoulder mount. Pronghorn hides are thin and can be prone to slippage if not cooled quickly. Get the cape on ice as fast as possible after the harvest. ## Wild Boar Texas hog hunting is a year-round pursuit, and a big boar makes an impressive mount — especially a shoulder mount that shows off those tusks. **Pricing:** $1,350 shoulder mount. Hog hides are thick and tough, but the bristles require careful handling. Avoid dragging the animal across rough ground, which can damage the bristle pattern. ## Bison A bison mount is a serious undertaking — these are massive animals that require significant wall space and structural support. But there's nothing quite like a full bison shoulder mount. **Pricing:** $1,800 / Call for large forms. If you're planning a bison mount, call us before your hunt so we can discuss logistics and preparation. ## Exotic Game — Texas Ranch Hunting Texas is home to some of the most diverse exotic hunting in the world, and we've mounted just about everything that walks the Hill Country ranches. Here's a rundown of the exotics we commonly see: ### Aoudad (Barbary Sheep) Native to North Africa but thriving in the Texas mountains, aoudad are challenging, rugged animals. Their distinctive mane and curved horns make for a striking mount. ### Axis Deer One of the most beautiful deer species in the world. Axis have spotted coats year-round and impressive antlers. Their hides are stunning — worth the extra care in the field. ### Blackbuck Small but spectacular. Blackbuck bucks have dramatic spiral horns and a striking two-tone coat. A shoulder mount of a mature blackbuck is a conversation piece. ### Fallow Deer Fallow come in several color phases — common, menil, black, and white. Their palmate antlers are unique among deer species. ### Nilgai The largest antelope in Asia, and a genuine challenge to hunt in South Texas. Nilgai are big animals — plan accordingly for transport and storage. ### Longhorn, Waterbuck, Wildebeest We handle a range of African and specialty species as well. Call us for pricing and specific guidance on these animals. **For all exotics:** pricing varies by species and form. Call ahead and we'll give you a specific quote. ## European Mounts — Clean, Simple, Affordable European mounts have surged in popularity over the last decade, and it's easy to see why. They're clean, modern, and significantly more affordable than a full shoulder mount. **What's included:** skull cleaning, whitening, and a finished mount ready to hang. **Pricing:** - Whitetail: $180 - Wild Hog: $225 - Sheep: $225 - Elk: $360 - Optional display plaque: +$35 European mounts work especially well for hunters who want to preserve multiple trophies without filling every wall with full shoulder mounts. ## Life-Size Displays Life-size mounts are the most involved — and the most impressive. We offer life-size displays for: - **Bobcat** — $1,080 - **Coyote** — $1,080 - **Fox** — $1,080 - **Raccoon** — $1,080 For life-size work, body measurements and reference photos from the field are extremely helpful. The more information you can give us, the more lifelike the finished piece. ## Not Sure What You Have? If you've harvested something unusual — a hybrid, a rare color phase, or a species you're not sure we handle — just call or reach out through our contact form. We've seen a lot, and we're happy to talk through your options before you make the drive. ## Drop Off This Season Spots fill fast during hunting season. If you've got a trophy ready — or you're heading out soon — don't wait. [See all pricing and schedule your drop-off](/lp/hunting-season-2026?utm_source=blog-aab&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=cmp_ud78dhvR7SOth_zVfGrr5d3NpjifZNC15TbyN87jYio&utm_content=act_lbrv03y9pdf-R8OIWQuXLmCE8yAUxkLJRpM5unDhtbM&utm_term=topic_species-guide) We're proud to serve hunters across Kingwood and the greater Houston area. Every mount we produce is a piece we stand behind — and a memory you'll display for a lifetime.