About this Product
This real monarch butterfly might be one of the most recognizable species in the insect world. Its distinct orange and black pattern is iconic and makes a wonderful gift. This beautiful butterfly taxidermy specimen is expertly posed, preserved, and placed in a protective glass dome display perfect for your decor. A hand-written data collection tag is included. This famous species is a must have for any entomology or insect collection. It makes a stunning and unique gift for her. Butterflies are a sentimental symbol and would be a fitting condolence or memorial gift, to evoke hope and healing.
Quality: I believe it’s worth the time and effort to meticulously process and mount each specimen in a lifelike position that displays its unique qualities and details. Specimens are stabilized with a proprietary process that withstands decades of display and the rigors of shipping too. Using their bodies in my insect art demands respect for their lives and a duty to source them in a sustainable manner.
Zoologica Shop
Meet the Maker
I developed a fascination for the natural world at a young age. From running feral through the magical summers and dreary winter forests of New England, I learned about each and every living thing I came across. My passion for biology led me to pursue a degree in zoology and wildlife ecology.
As an undergraduate student, I worked for the University’s entomology department. I learned identification and cataloging techniques, as well as, the delicate art and science of preserving specimens that accurately represented the unique characteristics of each insect species.
After completing my undergraduate degree, I was determined to work in the field and travel. I went as far as the high-arctic, the tropics, the Beaufort Sea, Southern Thailand, Chesapeake Bay, Washington State, to the very last Alaskan island before Russia. Decades later I settled in a sleepy little coastal town in Florida where I have built a little home and studio and create what you see here in my shop.
Today, I care for my disabled veteran husband, a chaotic little bird named Coco, and work on my little venture to provide the highest quality specimen mounts and the most delightful gifts for your loved ones. I strive to be the sort of small business you go to when you want the best experience, delivered promptly, and leaving you with something that will bring you years of joy.
Shop Policies
Specimen Care instructions
With proper care, high-quality and properly mounted insect specimens can last for decades.
1) Keep specimens in a humidity and temperature-controlled environment. Do not display outdoors or where normal house-hold temperature and humidity conditions persist. This could affect the preservation over time.
2) Display them out of direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will cause the colors of the specimens to fade over time. This is especially important for specimens with bright or iridescent colors.
3) Locate them out of the reach of children or pets. Almost every time a customer contacts me for a repair, a cat is involved. Real insect specimens are not suitable for children, as they are very fragile.
Are insect specimens “ethically sourced?”
When shopping for insect specimens, you may come across the term "ethically sourced.” However, it's important to note that this terminology isn’t an objective description of where these insects *actually* come from. I take sourcing and sustainability seriously. I verify the source of all species I work with, and relay that information to the customer so that they can make their own independent assessment of what is and isn’t “ethically sourced.”
All of my imported specimens (domestically raised and wild collected) are properly documented and legally imported into the United States in compliance with U.S. Fish and Wildlife requirements. Therefore, they are all legal to possess and own in the United States.
Domestically Raised Insects
Many insect species are farmed, just like other types of livestock, as part of conservation projects or specifically for sale as specimens. They are bred and raised in controlled environments to allow for genetic selection and uniform traits/quality. They are bred and released for repopulation programs, or harvested to provide financial support for local economies and conservation programs. Others are raised by devoted hobbyists who enjoy partaking in their unique life cycles and making supplemental income in the process.
Wild Collected Insects
Some of these insect species are wild-collected. While local people do rely on the collection of these natural resources for income, as a consumer, I am also conscious of the demand I create. For some species, wild-collecting is not done in a sustainable manner for the long-term health of wild populations (e.g. Asian bat specimens). Therefore I do not use them or offer them for sale. I only source specimens with stable populations. I also independently verify that none of my specimens are threatened or endangered species, species protected by international treaty, or CITES listed populations.
I also use “found dead” specimens when they are in usable condition.
Safe and Sustainable Shipping Practices
I use paper-based shipping materials to reduce non-degradable plastics in circulation. Unlike cheaper plastic-based materials, paper-based shipping materials are degradable or can be easily recycled. I use a range of paper-based cushioning materials, boxes, and paper tape, that provide superior protection during shipping, ensuring that orders arrive safely and intact. It’s more expensive, but do we really want to keep putting more plastics out there?
On occasion I include “second-use” bubble wraps and air pillows from my incoming supply orders to protect your shipment. But they are “second-use” materials that are already in circulation, just having another “go around.”
Do You Accept Returns and Cancellations?
Yes, you may cancel any order before it ships. My items are in ready to ship status when I list them and I ship fast. Reach out right away! Otherwise, you will be responsible for shipping charges and return shipping. Your refund is hassle free and 100% if you contact me before it leaves my shop.
I do accept returns within 7 days of delivery, and your refund will be less shipping charges in the unlikely event that something goes terribly wrong in shipping I ship with full insurance just to be sure. Anything that gets lost or damaged is eligible for replacement or refund. Your trust is my reputation, and I will have your back if anything goes amiss.
