Welcome to Bearded Hen Wildlife Studio
Meet the Artists
Melanie Hughes, Master Taxidermist
Melanie specializes in avian taxidermy but that is only the start. Melanie has been doing taxidermy since 2019 after spending 8 years answer 911 calls. Her professional demeanor and attention to detail once of life or death importance, become essential to providing quality and custom taxidermy. The talent for taxidermy came quickly and the passion for the art brought us to where we are today. Though she has won many accolades for waterfowl and upland game birds Melanie has an eye for taxidermy as a whole, winning several best of category awards in the gamehead division. While winning awards is an incredible honor, continued education is of key importance. Recently traveling across country to visit and learn from multiple world champion taxidermist to continuously refine the craft. When you bring an animal to us rest assured we go to great lengths to provide the best quality product.
Big Game Expert
Cody Benge, Master Taxidermist
Cody began his taxidermy career very young. With over 17 years of experience in various shops, including several months at a shop in New Zealand, he has worked on a variety of animals from all over the world. Cody specializes in big game from North American to African and beyond. Cody is a well decorated taxidermist in the competition arena, winning many best of category, and major awards. His incredible knowledge and attention to detail shines through the eyes of every mount he sends out the door. Anatomical accuracy is of critical importance to Cody. He knows replicating correct bone and muscle structure helps to make every mount as realistic as possible. This has driven him to begin sculpting his own manikins, several of which are available for sale to other taxidermists.
Though he enjoys all animals he is most passionate about the elusive black-tailed deer. Cody has taken several world class black-tailed deer himself. He enjoys bow hunting and spending time outdoors.
