Natural History

Spotted Triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata) - With distinctive dark and pectoral blotches on its fins, the Spotted Triggerfish exhibits a striking appearance, turning almost black after preparation. Like other fish in the Balistidae family, it features a lyre-shaped tail. Spotted oceanic triggerfish demonstrate dietary versatility, feeding on both carnivorous and planktivorous fare. Upon examination, they have been observed consuming smaller fish, Halobates (sea skaters), members of the order 'Siphonophores,' and smaller cartilaginous fish. This specimen was fished at a depth of 30 meters in Cadiz, Negros Archipelago – Philippines.

This unique specimen is mounted in a matte grey lacquered wood vitrine crafted by One of a Kind.

An exclusive design Glass Vitrine by One of a Kind featuring three Butterflyfish. Butterflyfish are common reef fishes found in the Indo-Pacific region, with around 50 species in this family. These specimens are from Palawan Island, Philippines, and have been locally dried. While they may have lost their original color, they still retain their beauty.

Goliathus orientalis, flawlessly preserved within a glass dome. This majestic beetle showcases perfection in every detail. Adorned in a predominantly white hue, the Goliathus features a captivating and intricate pattern, boasting a complex array of white spots enveloped by a striking black border.

These magnificent creatures exclusively inhabit sandy landscapes adorned with thick trees, creating a unique harmony with their surroundings. Our curated specimens originate from a breeding program in the biodiverse Democratic Republic of the Congo, where careful attention to their natural habitat ensures the authenticity and integrity of these remarkable specimens. 

Macrodontia cervicornis (popularly known as the Sabertooth longhorn beetle) is an insect of the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae, subfamily Prioninae; a beetle whose habitat is the humid tropical forests of the Neotropical region; from Colombia and the Guianas to the southern region of Brazil (Paraná), also including Ecuador and Peru. Reaching up to 17 centimeters in length, Macrodontia cervicornis is one of the largest and most beautiful species of beetles in the world, combining extreme rarity.

Interestingly, in the early days of aviation, in the 20th century, Macrodontia cervicornis served as a model for studies on aerodynamics by the French aviator Louis Blériot. Its larvae are a source of food for the indigenous peoples of Brazil, possessing excellent taste.

This perfectly rare specimen is beautifully displayed in a uniquely designed showcase by One of a Kind.

Spectacular Aetobatus narinari jaws reveal the distinctive tongue of this remarkable species. Mature spotted eagle rays can reach lengths of up to 5 meters, with the largest individuals boasting a wingspan of up to 3 meters and weighing up to 230 kilograms. Spotted eagle rays primarily prey on bivalves, crabs, whelks, and other benthic invertebrates. They also consume mollusks, crustaceans—particularly malacostracans—echinoderms, polychaete worms, hermit crabs, shrimp, octopuses, and small fish.

The specialized chevron-shaped tooth structure of the spotted eagle ray aids in crushing the hard shells of mollusks. Their jaws feature calcified struts that support them and prevent damage when breaking through tough prey shells. These rays exhibit unique behavior, often observed digging with their snouts in ocean sand. This particular specimen hails from the waters of Madagascar and is presented in a double black lacquered wood mount, meticulously crafted by One of a Kind.

The Blue Peacock, also known as the Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), is a species native to the Indian subcontinent and has been introduced to various other countries. This majestic bird is a resident breeder across the Indian subcontinent, predominantly inhabiting the drier lowland areas of Sri Lanka. In regions of northern India, the Indian peafowl holds cultural significance and is protected by religious practices, often foraging around villages and towns for scraps.

Historical records suggest that the peacock may have been introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great or reached Athens as early as 450 BCE. Since then, it has been introduced to numerous parts of the world, becoming feral in some areas. The Indian peafowl has found its way to countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, France, and many others, spreading its splendor across continents.

Celebrated in Hindu and Greek mythology, the Indian peafowl holds a special place in cultural symbolism and is revered as the national bird of India.

The male peacock is renowned for its stunning beauty, characterized not only by its vibrant blue coloration but also by its ornate trains displayed during courtship rituals. With feathers fanned out in a captivating display, the male peacock mesmerizes observers with its graceful movements.

This exquisite male peacock specimen, skillfully prepared by a taxidermist, can be mounted on either a wooden base or a wooden wall support, adding a touch of natural elegance to any setting.

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a frame.

Crocodile Skull (Crocodylus siamensis) from a reputable crocodile farm in Thailand, supplied with its certification. This extraordinary piece, mounted on a sleek black lacquered wood base with a handmade brass support, commands attention and exudes a unique charm. With its awe-inspiring presence and impeccable craftsmanship, this crocodile skull adds an intriguing exotic touch to any space. It comes with a CITES certificate, ensuring its authenticity and responsible sourcing. Embrace the allure of this one-of-a-kind decorative treasure and get in touch with the wild side of life.

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a glass dome.

A superb, complete skeleton of the Ball Python (Python regius), also known as the Royal python, a species native to West and Central Africa, thriving in grasslands, shrublands, and open forests. This non venomous constrictor is the smallest among African pythons, reaching a maximum length of 182 cm. The name 'ball python' is derived from its tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened. The skeleton has been meticulously prepared to museum standards and is fully mounted in a handmade black lacquered vitrine.

This specimen originates from Ghana and comes with its CITES certificate.

Crocodile Skull (Crocodylus siamensis) from a reputable crocodile farm in Thailand, supplied with its certification. This extraordinary piece, mounted on a sleek black lacquered wood base with a handmade brass support, commands attention and exudes a unique charm. With its awe-inspiring presence and impeccable craftsmanship, this crocodile skull adds an intriguing exotic touch to any space. It comes with a CITES certificate, ensuring its authenticity and responsible sourcing. Embrace the allure of this one-of-a-kind decorative treasure and get in touch with the wild side of life.

Superb Heteropterix dilatata from Malaysia in a black wood frame.

Heteropteryx dilatata is the only described species and gives its name to the family of the Heteropterygidae. Their only species may be known as Jungle nymph, Malaysian stick insect or Malayan wood nymph and because of their size it is commonly kept in zoological institutions and private terrariums of insect lovers. It originates in Malay Archipelago, more precisely on the Malay Peninsula and Borneo and is nocturnal.

Portunus pelagicus, commonly known as the flower crab or blue crab, is a large crab species inhabiting the Indo-Pacific region. It can be found along the coasts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Additionally, it thrives in intertidal estuaries spanning most of Australia and extending eastward to New Caledonia. The species holds significant commercial importance across the Indo-Pacific, where it is sought after for its traditional hard shells or marketed as "soft-shelled" crabs, considered a delicacy in various Asian cuisines. The species is highly valued, particularly in the Persian Gulf, where it is extensively harvested for meat consumption, with females commanding higher prices than males.

Noteworthy traits such as rapid growth, ease of larviculture, high fecundity, and relatively robust tolerance to both nitrate and ammonia make Portunus pelagicus an ideal candidate for aquaculture.

This particular specimen is from Cebu, Philippines.

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a glass dome.

Guitarfish, a remarkable shark species that combines the elegance of rays and the intrigue of sharks. This exquisite creature, from Madagascar, is mounted in a splendid glass vitrine, adds a touch of natural beauty and marine allure to any decor.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the mounted Guitarfish showcases its distinctive guitar-like shape, featuring a flattened body, elongated tail, and graceful pectoral fins. The delicate hues of brown, gray, or olive perfectly complement the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious aesthetic. Beyond its decorative appeal, the Guitarfish holds significant ecological importance. This species plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, making it a symbol of the interconnectedness of our planet's natural wonders.

Elevate your decor with the addition of the mounted Guitarfish in its elegant glass vitrine. Let its presence spark conversations, inspire a sense of wonder, and remind us of the remarkable diversity that exists beneath the waves.

This unique specimen comes with all the necessary documentation, ensuring its authenticity and compliance with regulations.

The Mako Shark (Isurus sp.) exhibits remarkable variations in both shortfin and longfin species. The shortfin mako can grow up to 4 meters in length and weigh a staggering 570 kg. Adult specimens typically measure around 2.5 to 3.2 meters in length and weigh between 135 and 230 kg. This species displays sexual dimorphism, with females generally being larger than males.

The longfin mako shark closely resembles its shortfin counterpart, but possesses distinct characteristics such as larger pectoral fins, dark coloration around the mouth, and larger eyes. Shortfin makos are commonly found in offshore temperate and tropical seas across the globe, while the closely related longfin makos are typically observed in the Gulf Stream or warmer offshore waters like New Zealand and Maine.

These pelagic creatures inhabit depths ranging from the surface to 150 meters, often far from the shore but occasionally venturing closer to islands, inlets, or coastal areas. Notably, the Mako Shark is one of the few known endothermic shark species, capable of maintaining a body temperature higher than the surrounding water. It tends to avoid waters colder than 16°C.

While recorded human encounters with Mako Sharks are rare, it's important to note that large specimens can pose a potential threat. Exercise caution and respect when observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

This particular specimen hails from the waters of Madagascar and is expertly mounted on a base crafted from black lacquered wood. Embrace the captivating allure of this Mako Shark specimen, an extraordinary addition to any collection or decor project.

A beautiful glass vitrine with a male and female of Mecynorhina torquata, is among the largest flower beetles in the world, only surpassed by the goliath beetles.It reaches about 55–85 millimetres (2.2–3.3 in) of length in the males, while the females are slightly smaller, reaching about 50–60 millimetres (2.0–2.4 in) of length.

Also a male and female of Mecynorhina ugandensis that differs from the torquata in the colour more brown and slightly bigger. These beetles are native to tropical Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon and Uganda. In this case they came from Uganda.

Pair of Blue Marlin rostrum, from Madagascar.

Nicely finished and prepared in a black iron socket. These rostrum are very hard, and in antiquity it was used as a dagger, specially by Vikings. 

Cyriopagopus minax known as Thailand black is a medium sized Tarantula.

It is a very fast and aggressive spider, and females are bigger and more dangerous! Even during mating, males are too afraid to simply approach a female and mate with her. Males take it pretty slow, attempting to distract the female with large slapping action from their front pair of legs.

They live in Thailand and Myanmar.

Blue Marlin rostrum – A work of art made in Indonesia, making a look like Narwhal tooth, handmade by local artisans.

Beautiful and unusual decor piece.

Non CITES species.

Scolopendra subspinipes is a species of very large centipede found throughout eastern Asia.

It is also found on virtually all land areas around and within the Indian Ocean, all of tropical and subtropical Asia from Russia to the islands of Malaysia and Indonesia, Australia, South and Central America, possibly parts of the southern United States, but how much of this range is natural and how much due to human introduction is unclear.

It is among the largest centipedes with a maximum length of 20 cm, this particular specimen is more than 20 cm! This centipede is an active, aggressive predator that preys on any animal it can overpower. It has been reported as apparent cause of human death.

This one came from Thailand, mounted in a black wood frame.

Blue Marlin rostrum – A work of art made in Indonesia, making a look like Narwhal tooth, handmade by local artisans.

Beautiful and unusual decor piece.

Non CITES species.

A glass frame with 3 different species of Mormolyce insects.

Mormolyce castelnaudi, Mormolyce hagenbachi and Mormolyce phyllodes. Due their peculiar shape they are known as Violin insects. They all came from Malaysia, where they live in rain forest.

Both adults and larvae are predators, feeding on insect larvae. For defense purposes, they secrete the poisonous butyric acid the eject and cause paralysis, even in humans.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

A beautiful group of Coleoptera framed in a lacquered black wood frame.

From up left to right we have Paraleprodera festiva from Thailand, Pavieia superba from Thailand, in the middle Xystrocera festiva from Thailand, Polybothris sumptuosa gemma from Madagascar and Lampropepla rothschildi from Madagascar.

A One of Kind piece of uncommom insects in very high quality specimen.

Whiptail stingrays are a family, the Dasyatidae, of rays in the order Myliobatiformes.

They are found worldwide in tropical to temperate marine waters, and a number of species have also penetrated into fresh water in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Members of this family have flattened pectoral fin discs that range from oval to diamond-like in shape. Their common name comes from their whip-like tails, which are much longer than the disc and lack dorsal and caudal fins.

All whiptail stingrays. This is a dried specimen coming from Philippines and is mounted in new design and created wood and glass vitrine with magnetic closure by One of a Kind.

Impressive couple of Dorystenes walkeri beetles, big and perfect coleopter from Thailand, displayed in a glass dome.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

Sanaa imperialis is a species of bush cricket (or katydid) found in the tropical forests of South and Southeast Asia.

A beautiful pair (male and female) from Thailand in a black wood frame.

Red hartbeest set of horns, in a handmade brass base, from Namibia.

Its a large African antelope of the family Bovidae. It has a longer face that other subspecies, with complex curving horns joined at the base. The average weight of a male is about 150 kg, and female is 120 kg.

Non CITES species.

Flata rubra is not a butterfly is a Flatidae, the only species of this peculiar family, from Thailand.

Seven specimen in a glass dome, the contrasted colors are beautiful, however is very difficult to prepare these species due to the delicate bodies and wings.

A unique chance to get this amazing One of a Kind piece.

Trimeresurus albolabris, snake skeleton from Indonesia in a black wood frame.

Also known as White-lipped pit Viper, venomous pit viper species endemic to Southeast Asia. Its meals consist of birds, small frogs, and small mammals. This snake doesn't strike and release its prey; like many arboreal snakes, it strikes and holds on to the prey item until the prey dies. Results of bites from this species range from mild envenoming to death.

The venom of white-lipped pitviper contains procoagulant properties. 

The pond slider Trachemys scripta is a species of common, medium-sized, semiaquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys scripta is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy.

Mounted in a high gloss beige lacquered wood base.

Non cites species.

A pair of female Cape Eland antelope, in brass bases, from Namibia. Its the biggest of all Elands, big bulls can reach 1000 kgs.

The common eland is sometimes farmed and hunted for its meat, and in some cases can be better used than cattle because it is more suited to African climates. This has led to some Southern African farmers switching from cattle to eland. Common elands are also pictured as supporters in the coat of arms of Grootfontein, Namibia.

Non-Cites species. 

Impala horns, from Zimbabwe, in a walnut wood base.

The Impala is a medium-sized antelope found in eastern and southern Africa. Active mainly during the day, the impala may be gregarious or territorial depending upon the climate and geography. The impala is found in woodlands and sometimes on the interface (ecotone) between woodlands and savannahs; it inhabits places near water.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the impala as a species of least concern.

Non CITES species. 

Red hartebeest set of horns, from Namibia, in a square black lacquered wood base.

Its a large African antelope of the family Bovidae. It has a longer face that other subspecies, with complex curving horns joined at the base.[4] The average weight of a male is about 150 kg, and female is 120 kg. Is a common species in South Angola, Namibia, Botswana and R. South Africa.

Non CITES species.

A pair of Zebu horns from Indonesia, mounted in a handmade satin brass finish.

Unique decor piece, from exclusive One of a Kind design.

Pair of Blue Marlin rostrum, from Madagascar.

Nicely finished and prepared in a black iron socket. These rostrum are very hard, and in antiquity it was used as a dagger, specially by Vikings. 

Shark backbone, not protected species, from Madagascar.

Supplied with black iron stand.

A beautiful glass case with six skulls of African Genet (two Geneta tigrina), Civet (two Civettictis civetta) and Black-backed Jackal (two Canis mesomelas), from Zimbabwe, Maize area.

Victorian Taxidermy

Armadillos can be found in Texas, the southern United States, throughout Central America and in northern South America.

In keeping with the Victorian taste for exotic curiosities, fashionable ladies have worn these baskets on their arm and coordinated the silk lining with their outfits.

They were also used as sewing baskets from time to time.

This is a larger one, the tail forming the handle, lined with green silk fabric, Circa 1880.

Shark backbone, not protected species, from Madagascar.

Supplied with black iron stand.