FAQs
Where do your taxidermy pieces and specimens come from?
1
We source all taxidermy and specimens ethically, from natural deaths, farms, hunting byproducts, and other responsible avenues. We never kill animals for decorative purposes.
Do you still sell bat displays?
2
No. While bats became a beloved symbol of Octavius & Grimsby, we retired bat displays out of respect for conservation efforts. We are committed to protecting these vital creatures and no longer sell bats or bat parts.
Are your wet specimens ethically sourced?
3
Yes. Like our taxidermy, all wet specimens are responsibly sourced and never taken from animals killed for the sake of collection.
Is everything you sell real?
4
Most of our natural history items (such as bones, specimens, and taxidermy) are real unless otherwise stated. Some replicas or reproductions may be used for specific designs and will always be clearly labeled.
Do you ship internationally?
5
Not at this time. Due to strict regulations surrounding the shipment of animal materials, we currently only ship within the United States.
Can I visit your shop in person?
6
Yes! Octavius & Grimsby has a physical space at 1202 S James Campbell, Suite 11, in Columbia, Tennessee. While we aren’t there every day, you might catch us dropping by, and lucky visitors may even receive a surprise gift or discount! We love encouraging curiosity, especially in young explorers.
How should I care for my taxidermy or specimen?
7
Keep pieces out of direct sunlight and high humidity. Dust gently with a soft brush or dry cloth. For wet specimens, store them upright and away from extreme temperatures. Detailed care instructions are provided with each purchase..
Will you be donating to animal conservation efforts?
8
We hope to! Supporting conservation and ethical practices is important to us, and we are exploring ways to contribute more directly in the future.
Is my house going to be haunted if I buy this?
9
Only by your own impeccable taste. (And perhaps by the lingering spirit of a very stylish antiquarian.)
Do you sell cursed items?
10
We don’t intentionally stock cursed objects... but if something odd does happen, we recommend offering it a nice cup of tea and a polite chat.
Do you have anything kid-friendly?
11
While much of our shop leans toward the curious and macabre, we welcome young explorers with open arms. We love sparking a lifelong interest in science, history, and the mysteries of the natural world!
Is it okay to just come and browse without buying anything?
12
Of course! Curiosity is free, and we are always thrilled when people want to explore, ask questions, and marvel at the wonders we've collected.
Tell me about your loose leaf tea blends!
13
Our tea blends are unique to Octavius & Grimsby, crafted with dark whimsy and old-world apothecary inspiration. Each blend is thoughtfully named and packaged to invite a little magic into your daily rituals.
Are Octavius & Grimsby your real names?
14
In spirit, absolutely! Octavius & Grimsby are the whimsical personas we created, inspired by the grand tradition of traveling sideshow runners and the tall-tale adventurers of a bygone era. In their world, they traverse the globe by horse-drawn buggy (and sometimes, perhaps, by tandem bicycle tied to a hot air balloon), collecting curious treasures to share with kindred spirits. Behind the curtain, we're real people, lifelong lovers of the strange and wonderful, dedicated to curating oddities, honoring the natural world, and sparking the imagination.