How old is this buck from Minnesota?

By Grant Woods,

  Filed under: ,

← Grant's Answers — How Old Is This Buck?
Question
Dr. Woods,

I have a buck showing up on my cameras and I am struggling to tell if he extremely young or if he has some sort of genetic problem. He seems short in body size compared to other bucks here in Minnesota. I will post a picture of him last year and this year. I would love your advice on how old he is.

Thanks,
Frank

Frank,

The buck’s legs appear too long for his body.  His neck merges with is chest well above his brisket.  If you cover his antlers he appears like a large-bodied doe.  These are all signs of a 2 year old buck.

There are very rarely genetic “problems” with deer.  I believe this deer is healthy and has great potential!

Enjoy creation,

grant