Taxidermy is the art of preserving the skin and body of an animal to create a lifelike representation. This process involves removing the animal's internal organs and treating the skin with chemicals to prevent decay. The preserved skin is then mounted on a form that resembles the animal's original shape, allowing it to be displayed for educational or decorative purposes. Taxidermy is often used in museums, where it helps educate the public about wildlife and ecosystems. It can also be found in homes and businesses as a form of art or decoration. Ethical practices in taxidermy emphasize the importance of using animals that have died from natural causes or accidents.