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Old Cape buffalo bulls at a mud wallow

Field prep · dip and pack · CITES · shipping

Trophy Export from Zimbabwe: From Field to Home

How your trophies get from the field to your home: what we do in camp, what happens at the taxidermist, and which permits you need.

Field Preparation

Field preparation of trophies is included in every hunting package. Our skinners prepare the skin, skull and horns in camp, and we deliver them to a local taxidermist.

Dip and Pack

For trophies you want mounted at home, the taxidermist cleans, treats ("dips") and packs them for export. Dip and pack is not included in our package price.

[Taxidermists we work with; typical dip and pack costs]

CITES and Import Permits

Some species are listed under CITES, the international convention on trade in endangered species. Their trophies need CITES export documents from Zimbabwe, and many countries also require an import permit. Apply early: permits can take months.

[Rules for the USA, the EU and other countries]

Taxidermy in Africa vs at Home

You can have your trophies mounted in Africa and shipped finished, or dipped and packed and mounted by your own taxidermist at home. Mounting in Africa is often cheaper; mounting at home lets you work directly with a taxidermist you know.

[ATB's recommendation and typical prices]

Shipping Times and Costs

A 4% charge applies to all exportable trophy animals, on top of the trophy fee.

[Typical time from the end of the hunt to delivery; shipping agents and costs]

Species with Import Restrictions

Elephant and leopard always need extra permits, and rules for both change regularly. Hippo, crocodile and some other species also need CITES export documents. Check your own country's current rules before you book the hunt.

[Verify the species list and current US and EU import rules before publishing.]