Ethical Sourcing & Preservation

Respecting Nature Through Preservation

At Spotdities, respect for nature is at the heart of everything I create. Every specimen used in my artwork is ethically sourced through responsible, legal, and humane means. I do not support, encourage, or participate in the unnecessary harm, illegal hunting, poaching, illegal trapping, or killing of animals for artistic purposes. My work is rooted in preservation, education, and appreciation, not exploitation. Spotdities exists to honor nature’s beauty by transforming what would otherwise be lost into meaningful works of art that celebrate the remarkable lives of the animals and specimens I preserve.

Where My Specimens Come From

I carefully source specimens through a variety of ethical channels, including:

Naturally Deceased Wildlife

Many specimens are recovered after natural death or accidental loss, including wildlife found along roadways and other locations where animals have passed naturally.

Farms & Agricultural Partners

I work with trusted local and occasionally non-local farms and agricultural partners who provide naturally deceased animals that would otherwise go unused.

Reptile Rescues & Rehabilitation Organizations

Certain specimens originate from reptiles and other animals that have passed away while in rescue, rehabilitation, or educational care. Local and across the US.

Licensed Breeders & Hobbyists

Some specimens are obtained through responsible breeders who ethically provide animals that have died naturally or from unavoidable circumstances.

Educational Sources & Private Collections

I occasionally acquire specimens from educational institutions, collectors, and preservationists seeking to ensure specimens continue to serve a meaningful purpose.

Trusted Preservation Opportunities

I work with ethical sources across the United States to ensure specimens are obtained responsibly and legally.

Preservation With Purpose

Every specimen has a story.

Rather than allowing these animals to be discarded or forgotten, I seek to preserve their beauty, uniqueness, and educational value through artistic craftsmanship and thoughtful presentation. Each creation is approached with care, patience, and respect for the life it once represented. I believe preservation can be a powerful way to foster appreciation for nature, wildlife, anatomy, ecology, and the delicate cycles that connect all living things.

My Commitment To Ethical Practices

I am committed to:

  • Ethical and legal sourcing practices
  • Respectful treatment of all specimens
  • Compliance with applicable wildlife regulations
  • Transparency regarding specimen origins
  • Continued education regarding preservation techniques and wildlife laws

I reserve the right to decline any project, commission, or specimen that does not align with my ethical standards.

Natural Variations

Because every specimen is unique, natural variations should be expected. Differences in coloration, texture, size, feather patterns, bone structure, and overall appearance are a natural part of working with real specimens and contribute to the individuality of each piece. These variations are not defects, they are part of what makes every creation truly one of a kind.

Preservation As Remembrance

At Spotdities, my goal is not to focus on death.

Instead, I focus on transformation.

Through preservation and artistry, I strive to honor each specimen’s life by creating works that inspire curiosity, education, reflection, wonder and a lot of funny. Every preserved specimen, botanical display, shadow box, and handcrafted creation serves as a reminder that beauty can continue long after life has ended.

Nature deserves respect, even after death.

Every piece I create reflects that belief.

Preserving Nature’s Story, One Creation at a Time.

⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION — WET SPECIMENS ⚠️

Please read carefully before purchasing or handling any wet specimen.

All wet specimens offered by Spotdities are intended for display and educational purposes only. Specimens should remain sealed within their containers and should not be removed or handled unnecessarily. Each specimen is professionally preserved using a formalin fixation process before being transferred into a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution for long term preservation and display. Formalin is classified as a carcinogen (a substance known to increase cancer risk with exposure). While every specimen is thoroughly rinsed in distilled water to remove excess formalin prior to being placed into its display solution, trace amounts may still be present.

If handling a specimen becomes necessary:

  • Always wear protective gloves.
  • Handle specimens in a well ventilated area.
  • Avoid direct skin contact with specimen fluids.
  • Keep away from children and pets.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

I am committed to responsible preservation practices and customer safety. Detailed specimen care instructions will be included with every wet specimen purchase. By purchasing a wet specimen from Spotdities, you acknowledge that you have read and understand these safety recommendations and agree to handle all preserved specimens responsibly.

Can’t Find What You Want Here? Contact Me Through my Commissions page.