RE: Taxidermy as a PT job.
Maybe you could work for one of the other taxis in your area for a year or so and learn from him. Tell him what you are interested in doing and he may be willing to take you under his wing and teach you the ropes. That way you could see if it is really something you are good enough at to try and do it yourself. And you will find out how much work it really is. Not to mention the mess.