EP102: Finding Artistry in the Hunting Industry ↣ Doug Cockroft From Splitting Image

<p>In this Episode Robin visits Doug Cockroft –founder of Splitting Image Taxidermy– in his incredible factory and studio space. <br /><br />The conversation delves into the journey of taxidermy, It's origins, the unknown passion involved, and the future of the industry. It explores the impact of importation rules and its evolving solutions to new challenges. Amongst Doug's own fascinating stories we also cover the evolution of 3D printing technology, the art of taxidermy and anatomy, tanning techniques, ethics and principles in taxidermy, and the discussion of hunting, conservation, and responsibility. We also couldn't tip our hat to the future of taxidermy without giving a comical nod to taxidermy 100 years ago.</p><p></p><p>A huge thank you to Doug for the thought provoking chat, and to the Splitting Image team for their help setting up the space.</p><p></p><p>Check out the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.splittingimagetaxidermy.co.za/" target="_blank">Splitting Image</a> website</p><p>Follow them on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/splittingimagetaxidermy/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@SplittingImageTaxidermy" target="_blank">YouTube</a>, and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/SplittingImageTaxidermy" target="_blank">Facebook</a> too</p><p></p><p>Give Robin and The Wild Dispatch a follow on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/thewilddispatch/" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a> + <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/robin.warman.79/" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a>...</p><p>Listen on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-dispatch/id1704707636" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3RojcFXIzDMXkD1TBRlDlW" target="_blank">Spotify</a>, and watch on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@thewilddispatch-tx5ll" target="_blank"><b>YouTube </b></a>too.</p><p></p><hr /><hr /><p>This episode dives into the fascinating world of taxidermy, guided by Doug Cocroft, founder of Splitting Image Taxidermy. We explore the history, technological advancements, ethical considerations, and the profound connection between hunting and conservation.</p><p></p><p><b>Timestamps:</b> </p><p>00:00 - Introduction and the importance of respecting wildlife in taxidermy</p><p>00:44 - Doug Cockroft’s entrance into taxidermy</p><p>01:30 - The origin of taxidermy practices</p><p>02:16 - The transformative role of hunting and conservation in Africa</p><p>04:10 - The relationship between taxidermy and wildlife storytelling</p><p>05:16 - Personal reflections on connecting with nature</p><p>06:40 - The importance of patience, observation, and respect</p><p>08:07 - Hunting versus non-hunting – A spectrum of attitudes</p><p>09:13 - Memorable experiences and mishaps</p><p>10:52 - The story of a vehicle mishap</p><p>14:50 - The role of hunting</p><p>18:49 - Transition from guiding to taxidermy</p><p>20:00 - How 9/11 reshaped Doug’s career path into taxidermy</p><p>21:40 - Early training and challenges in taxidermy</p><p>25:12 - Doug's true passion for the craft and conservation’s role</p><p>28:49 - The history and cultural roots of taxidermy in Africa and beyond</p><p>38:31 - 3D printing, scanners, and chemical advancements</p><p>42:17 - Evolution of techniques and technologies</p><p>48:44 - Handling ethical considerations </p><p>53:01 - Taxidermy and creative, respectful expressions</p><p>56:46 - The influence of legislation and poaching</p><p>60:39 - The connection between hunting, storytelling, and societal perception</p><p>64:18 - The importance of authentic outdoor experiences a</p><p>65:33 - Resources and inspirations for those interested in taxidermy</p>