Deer shed their antlers annually, typically between late December and April, depending on factors like age, health, and region.
Antlers fall off due to decreasing testosterone levels after the breeding season. Once shed, new antlers begin growing in spring.
The prime time for shed hunting is February through April, when most bucks have dropped their antlers.
Search in feeding areas, bedding spots, trails, and water sources, where deer spend most of their time.
– Go After Snowmelt – Antlers become easier to spot. – Use Binoculars – Scan open fields before trekking in.
– Walk Slowly – Cover ground carefully to avoid missing sheds. – Check Fence Lines – Bucks often lose antlers jumping fences.
Look for Chewed Antlers – Rodents gnaw on antlers for calcium.