Why are bucks producing “weak” antlers?
Filed under: Deer Biology
Have a local landowner who is seeing a tremendous amount of deer with that are having very inconsistent antler growth. Racks being developed on one side yet other side being very weak. I suggested a few things to him about letting deer age, nutrition, genetics etc.
What he is continuously finding is that deer are weaker in points, mass, length, etc.
Figured I would get your opinion also to share with him.
Thanks
Scott
Scott,
“Weak” antlers are usually a reflection of habitat quality. Genetics is almost never an issue with deer. In fact, genetics has never been shown to be a problem with antler development.
Average body weights for deer harvested will be a good indicator of habitat quality? If the body weights are below average then antler development will likely be less than expected.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 20, 2015
