What is the appeal of taxidermy?

My father-in-law has dear heads, squirrels, turkey beards galore all over the den. I find it revolting. My husband and I are now in conversation about whether or not any “memory of a great hunt” he may get will be given a place in our home.

I cannot understand it. Dead animals perched around the house and decapitated heads on the wall creep me out. Yes, yes, yes… I know the eyes and teeth aren’t real and all of that… don’t care, though. Memories, great hunt, whatever – take a picture, make a scrapbook!

What am I missing?