What is it Called When Deer Shed Their Antlers?

When deer shed their antlers, it's called "antler shedding" or "antler casting". This is a natural process that occurs annually in most whitetail deer males (bucks), typically in late winter or early spring. During this time, the deer's antlers, which are made of bone, will detach from their skull, allowing them to grow a new set of antlers for the next breeding season.

The process of antler shedding is triggered by changes in hormone levels in the deer's body, which causes the antlers to weaken and fall off. Once the antlers have been shed, the deer will grow a new set of antlers over the course of several months, which will be larger and more complex than their previous set. This growth process is fueled by a rich supply of blood and nutrients, which the deer obtains through a healthy diet and good genetics.

Antler shedding is an important part of the buck's life cycle, as it allows them to grow new and improved antlers each year. It also provides valuable opportunities for hunters to find and collect the shed antlers.