Mark's Bird Works Waterfowl and Upland Taxidermy

Mark's Bird Works does one thing and does it well: turn quality bird mounts at affordable prices. Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range overlooking Washoe Valley between Carson City and Reno, Mark specializes exclusively in waterfowl and upland game bird taxidermy.

"The majority of my work is from returning customers."

Bird mounting is only as good as what happens under the skin. In 2011, Mark received personalized training in waterfowl, upland birds, and habitat from an award-winning Master Taxidermist. That means every mount—whether it's a pup's first retrieve, a senior dog's last bird, or that trophy you finally bagged—gets handled properly from thaw to completion.

Mark examines each bird thoroughly before work begins and discusses any issues upfront: broken bones (usually fine except above the elbow), feather damage that might require pose adjustments, or condition concerns. You stay in the loop the entire process.

Waterfowl: - Puddle ducks & divers: $295 - Medium sea ducks: $325 - Large sea ducks (eiders, long-tails): $325 - Geese: $350–$500 depending on size - Swan: Request quote

Upland Game: - Chukar, Hungarian partridge: $265 - Blue grouse: $300 - Sage hen: $350 - Pheasant: $325 - Turkey fan/beard/spurs on walnut: $200

Add-Ons: Driftwood bases ($15–$30), habitat options, water/ice effects, dead mount panels ($40+)

50% deposit when you drop off, balance on completion. Mark accepts cash, check, and Venmo—no credit cards. Prices have been raised minimally to cover skyrocketing material and shipping costs, but affordability remains the goal.

Retrieve the bird yourself (soft-mouthed dogs only), cool it off, wrap head and feet in wet paper towels, tuck the head under a wing, place in a freezer bag with air removed, and freeze. Get it to the taxidermist within a few months. Avoid frost-free freezers, pantyhose, newspaper, and vacuum sealing—blood and dirt wash off during processing.

Mark is a proud supporter of Dayton Valley Ducks Unlimited.