According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife deer in our state generally shed their antlers in late February or early March. There can be some variation from year to year and from deer to deer but this is generally the timeframe when you can expect to see them start losing their antlers.
The process begins when the blood vessels that supply the antlers with nutrients begin to constrict. This cuts off the flow of blood and nutrients and the antlers begin to die. Once they are dead the deer will rub them off on trees or other objects and they will fall off.
If you find shed antlers you can be sure that the deer that lost them is already hard at work growing a new set. Antlers are one of the fastest-growing tissues in the animal kingdom and deer can grow an entirely new set in just a few months. So if you find some shed antlers while out hiking this spring don’t be too surprised if you see the same deer walking around with a brand new set of antlers a few months later!
Does the Washington deer shed their antlers all at once?
No the process of shedding and regrowing antlers is gradual.
How often do Washington deer shed their antlers?
Deer in Washington usually shed their antlers once a year.
Why do Washington deer shed their antlers?
Deer shed their antlers as a response to shorter days and decreased levels of testosterone.
How long does it take for Washington deer to grow new antlers?
It takes Washington deer about 3-5 months to grow new antlers.
What do Washington deer use their antlers for?
Male deer use their antlers for fighting during the mating season.
Do female Washington deer have antlers?
No only male deer have antlers.
How can you tell if a Washington deer is male or female?
You can generally tell if a deer is male or female by the size of the deer.
Male deer are usually larger than female deer.
Do all deer in Washington have the same color antlers?
No the color of a deer’s antlers can vary depending on the deer’s age health and genetics.
What is the most common color for Washington deer antlers?
The most common color for Washington deer antlers is brown.
Are Washington deer antlers always straight?
No Washington deer antlers can be straight or they can be curved.
How do I know if a Washington deer shed its antlers?
If you find a Washington deer antler that is not attached to a deer then it has most likely been shed.
Where can I find shed Washington deer antlers?
You can find shed Washington deer antlers in forests parks and meadows.
Can I keep a Washington deer antler I find?
Yes you can keep a shed Washington deer antler if you find one.
What should I do with a Washington deer antler I find?
You can do whatever you want with a shed Washington deer antler but some people like to mount them on a wall or use them as a decoration.
What are some other things I can do with Washington deer antlers?
In addition to mounting them or using them as a decoration you can also use Washington deer antlers to make deer antler jewelry or deer antler crafts.
