Gross & Fascinating: Learn how to Preserve Rodents in this Rat Taxidermy Class

Just when you thought you had seen it all: East Williamsburg’s Smart Department is putting on a taxidermy class to teach local rodent enthusiasts how to preserve NYC’s favorite subway vermin forever and ever.

The six-hour class, which costs $200 and will run on June 17, promises an immersive experience in the history and practice of rat taxidermy. According to Smart Department’s class page: 

“Students will learn everything involved in the production of a fully finished taxidermy mount, including initial preparation, hygiene and sanitary measures, fleshing, tail stripping, and dry preservation… Once properly preserved, the rats will be posed and outfitted as the student desires. Although a broad selection of props and accessories will be provided by the instructor, students are also welcome to bring their own accessories and bases; all other materials will supplied. As always, all specimen are ethically sourced.”

The class will also offer an option to add an additional head to the preserved rats. However, additional rat heads must be provided by the student. 

So, bring your extra rat heads, tiny rat clothes, and sense of humor because Smart Department is offering the class of a lifetime you won’t want to miss. 

Check out Smart Department’s other classes and projects here. 

Featured image courtesy of Smart Department.