Antlers are one of the most distinctive features of members of the deer family. But what are they for? And how do they grow?
Deer are members of the family Cervidae which includes red deer elk moose and reindeer. Antlers are unique to members of this family.
Both male and female deer have antlers although the antlers of females are usually smaller. Antlers grow from pedicles bony outgrowths on the skulls of deer.
As a deer grows so do its antlers. Antlers are made of bone which is living tissue. Blood vessels and nerves run through the core of the antlers supplying nutrients and feeling.
Antlers grow rapidly starting from tiny buds in the spring. The antlers continue to grow throughout the summer getting larger and larger. By fall the antlers are fully grown.
Once the antlers are grown the deer rubs them against trees and other objects to remove the velvet a hairy covering that protects the antlers while they are growing.
After the velvet is gone the antlers are hard and bone-like. The tips of the antlers are covered in a layer of hard keratin which gives them a smooth polished look.
The function of antlers is still debated by scientists. One theory is that they are used to attract mates. Another theory is that they are used in fights between males for dominance.
Whatever their purpose antlers are an impressive sight. And it’s amazing to think that these bone-like structures are actually alive and growing!
At what age do whitetail deer start growing antlers?
Male whitetail deer start growing antlers at around one and a half years old.
How long does it take for antlers to reach full growth?
It takes antlers approximately three to four months to reach full growth.
What are antlers made of?
Antlers are made of bone and are covered in a thin layer of skin called velvet.
Do all whitetail deer have antlers?
No only male whitetail deer have antlers.
What purpose do antlers serve?
Antlers are used for mate selection and territorial disputes.
How do antlers grow?
Antlers grow from a base called the pedicel.
How do antlers fall off?
Antlers are shed every year and grow back larger the following spring.
What is the difference between antlers and horns?
Antlers are made of bone and are shed every year while horns are made of keratin and are permanent.
What do deer use to scrape the velvet off of their antlers?
Deer use their teeth and hooves to scrape the velvet off of their antlers.
What does the velvet on antlers contain?
The velvet on antlers contains blood vessels which supply nutrients to the growing bone.
How much do antlers weigh?
Antlers can weigh up to 40 pounds.
Are antlers dangerous?
Yes antlers can be dangerous as they are sharp and can cause injury.
Do all deer species have antlers?
No not all deer species have antlers.
How can you tell the difference between a buck and a doe?
Bucks have antlers and doe do not.
What is the earliest age at which a whitetail deer can grow antlers?
The earliest age at which a whitetail deer can grow antlers is around one and a half years old.
