Hosted by Rocky Mountain Materials
The Keith and Claudia Davis Youth Scholarship Program
Supporting young taxidermy artists aged 18 and under by providing funding for education, tools, and supplies. We believe talent shouldn't be limited by financial barriers, so we help passionate youth pursue their craft and develop their skills in this timeless art form.
Ready to apply? Applications open January 1, 2026
Quality taxidermy tools, materials, and training can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars—expenses often out of reach for young enthusiasts. This scholarship helps remove financial barriers, ensuring that passion and talent, not money, determine who can pursue this craft. By supporting youth early, we're investing in the future of taxidermy.
Keith and Claudia Davis weren't just taxidermists—they were pioneers who turned a passion for birds into an art form. What began with a pair of ring-necked pheasant roosters in their Salt Lake City backyard grew into a lifelong dedication to game bird breeding and preservation. Keith's expertise earned him countless first-place awards with the Utah Pheasant Association, where he eventually served as both judge and president.
In the 1970s, the Davis' moved to Victor, Idaho, building their home and business at the base of Pine Creek Pass. There, Fin 'n' Feather Taxidermy was born—a name combining their fishing ponds at Fin Springs with Keith's specialized bird taxidermy work. Together, Keith and Claudia formed an unstoppable team: she meticulously skinned each bird while he perfected the mounting process. Their home became a living museum, showcasing hundreds of birds and earning them a reputation as the best in the business with 100% customer satisfaction.
Tragically, Keith and Claudia's lives were cut short in a car accident in 2005. Their legacy seemed lost—until 2009, when their grandson, Daniel Davis, felt called to revive Fin 'n' Feather Taxidermy, training under their close friend and mentor to honor their memory.
The Keith and Claudia Davis Youth Scholarship Program continues this legacy by ensuring that young people with passion and talent—just like Keith once had—aren't held back by financial barriers. It's a tribute to two people who dedicated their lives to their craft and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of taxidermy artists.
