Natural Selection - Purveyors of Fine Plant & Animal Specimens. Keeping Reno Odd and Beautiful Since 2014

39 Saint Lawrence Avenue

Reno, Nevada 89509

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Step right up and check out some of the most unique plant species and animal specimens you’ve ever seen, all part of a passion-driven scene guaranteed to spark excitement. 

Natural Selection is a whole vibe. It was created by two incredible women—a wicked cool mother-daughter duo with a deep love for all things natural. Emily heads up the taxidermy side, while her mom, Marcy, works her magic with the plants—though honestly, they both know their way around each other’s specialties too.

I don’t know what it is exactly, but between the warm wood finishes, the bright and beautifully styled window display, and Emily and Marcy’s welcoming energy, passion, and expertise, this place is an absolute dream.

A quick word of caution: if you step inside, don’t be surprised if you leave with a new favorite spot… or better yet, a full-blown obsession.

The shop itself is a masterpiece. Vintage furniture, carefully handpicked, sets the stage for a stunning mix of lush plants and fascinating animal specimens, all adding to the shop’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

I’ll never forget my first visit years ago.  It felt like stepping into a mashup of a 1930s Jungle Cruise and the Bates Motel. Eerie, exciting, and totally unforgettable. That’s when I knew I’d found one of my all-time favorite places.

"You can't buy happiness, BUT YOU CAN BUY PLANTS... And that's pretty much the same thing."

Why Taxidermy?

-Some people just think it’s cool.

-It’s an outlet for those fascinated by wildlife, like hunters or people who grew up fishing with their uncles.

-Taxidermy combines multiple disciplines - woodwork, sculpture, painting, skinning, and science - all in one art form.

-It allows people to capture what they believe is the subject’s true natural state.

-Museums use taxidermy to create educational displays that bring nature to life.

-Taxidermy isn’t mainstream, and people love that it’s a rare, unsaturated art form.

-It’s a challenge to make the subject look realistic, which many find thrilling.

-Ultimately, taxidermy can inspire others to explore the wild and deepen their appreciation for the natural world.

Why Shop & Support Local?

*Shopping local helps keep unique and diverse businesses open, often run by passionate owners who provide top-notch service and create quality products.

*Successful local businesses have the power to create more jobs and opportunities right here in our community.

*Local businesses tend to support each other, which strengthens our community and makes it a more personal, happier place to live.

*When you shop local, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting the dreams of friends and neighbors.

By choosing local, you’re investing in the heart of your community.

Notes

-There are a few parking spots right up front, but don’t worry if they’re full -there’s plenty of neighborhood parking nearby. Honestly, walking around Midtown is the best anyway. You’ll stumble upon so many cool stores in a small area.

-This amazing shop was created by Emily and Marcy, an inspiring mother-daughter duo. Emily is the taxidermy specialist, while Marcy is the plant expert (though Emily knows her stuff when it comes to plants, too).

-Emily’s passion for what she does shines through. She was happy to share her story with me, and I left feeling inspired by her and her mom’s kindness, intelligence, and the courage it took to bring their vision to life.

-If you’re into taxidermy and want to see more in Reno, check out the displays at Scheel’s in Sparks or the Wilbur D. May Museum. Both spots have some incredible taxidermy exhibits.

-Want to make your visit extra special? Check out the hours for Perenn Bakery (Midtown location) and treat yourself to some of Reno’s best pastries, right across the street.

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own. 

Photography

©Katherine Fung

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Categorized Under "Local Businesses"---> "Gift Shops"