Our Sourcing
Our Sourcing Standards
We believe transparency is important when working with natural materials. When we describe our specimens or materials as ethically sourced, we are referring to animals that were acquired through legal, responsible, and respectful means. This includes animals obtained from licensed hunters, trappers, farmers, and occasionally animals that have died from natural causes or accidental events such as road strikes.
We only work with sources that follow strict standards of animal welfare and responsible use.
We also maintain additional standards regarding the origin of our materials. No animal products are sourced from countries that lack animal welfare regulations. In cases involving very young animals, specimens are only accepted if they died naturally or were unable to survive despite proper care.
Commitment to Transparency
We understand that the term “ethically sourced” can mean different things to different people. For that reason, we strive to be as clear and open as possible about where our materials come from and how they are obtained. Our goal is to provide accurate information so that customers can make informed decisions based on their own values and perspectives.
Ultimately, we want you to feel confident in what you choose to purchase, knowing that the materials were obtained responsibly and handled with care and respect.
What We Expect from our Suppliers.
We believe that animals obtained through hunting, trapping, and farming can be sourced ethically when strict standards of care, legality, and respect are upheld. For that reason, we only work with suppliers who meet or exceed the following requirements.
Hunted or Trapped Animals
- All individuals maintain current, valid licenses for hunting or trapping.
- All applicable state and federal regulations are strictly followed, including those related to seasons, bag limits, transportation, and documentation.
- Individuals have completed certified hunter and/or trapper education courses to ensure a thorough understanding of safe, humane, and responsible practices.
- Trappers comply with all state guidelines regarding approved trapping methods, prioritizing equipment designed to minimize stress and suffering.
- Traps are checked at frequent, legally compliant intervals to ensure animals are attended to and dispatched promptly.
- Every effort is made to utilize as much of the animal as possible, minimizing waste.
- Non-target and juvenile animals are released whenever possible.
Farmed Animals
- All required licenses and permits are current and in good standing.
- Animals are provided with species-appropriate nutrition at proper intervals.
- Animals have continuous access to clean, fresh water.
- Enclosures are appropriately sized, well-maintained, and kept clean.
- Caretakers provide adequate shelter for their animals from environmental conditions and are adjusted as needed to maintain animal comfort.
- Animals are handled with care and respect, using proper techniques to minimize stress and prevent injury.
- Animals are routinely monitored for signs of injury or illness, with prompt veterinary care provided when needed.
- Humane dispatch methods are used, ensuring the process is as quick, stress-free, and painless as possible.
- As much of the animal as possible is utilized, reducing unnecessary waste.
Baby Animals
We only work on immature (baby) animals if the animal is...
- Roadkill
- Failure to thrive
- Natural death
We do not condone the purposeful killing of baby animals for profit in any capacity.
Zero Tolerance for Abuse
At no point are animals subjected to intentional harassment or neglect. Animals must be dispatched using a method that is deemed a humane method of euthanasia according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Direct Sourcing and Accountability
Whenever possible, we work directly with hunters, trappers, and farmers. Building one-on-one relationships allows us to maintain transparency, verify practices, and ensure that all animal products we source align with the standards outlined above.
Contact
If you have questions about our sourcing, feel free to reach out!
Sterling Fox Taxidermy LLC
Email: sterlingfoxtaxidermy@gmail.com
We want our customers to buy with confidence, knowing they’re supporting a shop committed to responsible and ethical sourcing.
With your purchase, you positively impact small family farms and wildlife conservation through predator management programs.