This is a common pattern in the animal kingdom, where males often develop larger, more elaborate features for display and competition, especially during mating season.
Here's why:
* Mating competition: Male caribou use their antlers to fight for dominance and access to females. Larger antlers provide an advantage in these battles.
* Display: Antlers also serve as a visual signal to attract females. Larger antlers are more impressive and signal the male's strength and fitness.
While females do have antlers, they are much smaller and less elaborate. This is because they don't need them for the same purposes as males.