Journey into the world of taxidermy with Tom Douglas, known to many as the "Wiltshire Redneck" on social media. Tom pulls back the curtain on a craft that transforms hunting trophies into lasting memories, sharing insights gained from following in his father's footsteps in this 40-year family tradition.

What happens after you take that perfect shot? Tom walks us through proper field care techniques that make all the difference between a stunning mount or a disappointing result. You'll learn why bleeding a deer through the throat can ruin a potential shoulder mount, why field dressing immediately produces cleaner capes, and how to handle your trophy in hot weather. Even experienced hunters will find valuable tips to improve their field practices.

The conversation spans continents as Tom shares his hunting adventures across Africa, including the unique challenges of bow hunting compared to rifle hunting. His perspective on international hunting costs reveals why UK hunters have a different relationship with trophies than their American counterparts – what costs £600 here might command thousands abroad. This economic reality influences everything from hunting practices to decoration choices.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Tom offers fascinating biological insights about deer species variations across regions. Did you know rutting Sika deer can develop skin two inches thick that can actually impede bullet performance? Or that Scottish red deer are considered a different subspecies than English red deer, with distinct characteristics and scoring systems?

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to better preserve your trophies, a wildlife enthusiast curious about species variations, or simply interested in the art of taxidermy, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into a world where hunting tradition meets meticulous craftsmanship. Subscribe to the Outdoor Gibbon podcast for more insights from fascinating guests across the hunting and outdoor community.

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