The economy of animals can only be studied when the functions of life are in full activity; their haunts must be explored, their operations watched, and their peculiarities observed in the open air. But in order to acquire a more accurate knowledge of their external form and to investigate their internal structure, it is absolutely necessary to examine them in a dead state. This fascinating book contains detailed information on the art of taxidermy, comprising all the information one might need to know about the subject in a concise and accessible compendium, perfect for beginners and current hobbyists alike. The chapters of this book include: 'On Collecting Zoological Subjects', 'On Preserving Zoological Subjects', 'On the Formation and Arrangement of Collections', and 'The Bibliography of Zoology with Biographical Sketches of the Principle Authors'. We are proud to republish this antique book complete with a new introduction to taxidermy.