According to most sources deer begin to lose their antlers in late November or early December. However some deer may hold onto their antlers until early February. The timing of antler loss is thought to be controlled by changes in daylight with shorter days causing the deer to shed their antlers sooner.
There are a few theories as to why deer lose their antlers. One theory is that the antlers are simply too heavy for the deer to keep carrying around especially as the winter approaches and food becomes scarce. Another theory is that the antlers are used as a way to attract mates and once the mating season is over there is no need to keep them any longer.
Whatever the reason losing their antlers is a natural process for deer and one that happens every year. If you find a shed antler it’s a sign that spring is just around the corner!
What time of year do deer generally lose their antlers?
Answer 1: Deer generally lose their antlers in the late winter to early spring.
Do all types of deer lose their antlers?
Answer 2: No not all deer lose their antlers.
For example caribou/reindeer keep their antlers year-round.
How often do deer grow new antlers?
Answer 3: Deer grow a new set of antlers every year.
How long does it take for a deer to grow new antlers?
Answer 4: It takes a deer anywhere from 3 to 5 months to grow new antlers.
What are antlers made of?
Answer 5: Antlers are made of bone.
Do all male deer have antlers?
Answer 6: No not all male deer have antlers.
For example male water deer do not have antlers.
Do any female deer have antlers?
Answer 7: Yes some female deer have antlers.
For example female reindeer have antlers.
What purpose do antlers serve?
Answer 8: Antlers are used for mate selection and for competing for mates.
How do antlers help deer compete for mates?
Answer 9: Antlers help deer compete for mates by acting as a visual cue of the deer’s fitness.
How do antlers help deer attract mates?
Answer 10: Antlers help deer attract mates by producing a sound that attracts females.
What is the sound that antlers make?
Answer 11: The sound that antlers make is a clicking sound.
How do deer use their antlers during the mating season?
Answer 12: During the mating season deer use their antlers to spar with other males.
What is the purpose of sparring?
Answer 13: The purpose of sparring is to establish dominance over other males.
How does the winner of a sparring match typically behave?
Answer 14: The winner of a sparring match typically behaves in a dominant manner towards the loser.
How does the loser of a sparring match typically behave?
Answer 15: The loser of a sparring match typically behaves in a submissive manner towards the winner.
