What Time of Year Do Deer Shed Their Antlers?

All male deer shed and regrow their antlers on a cyclical basis. The buck does not need his antlers during the regeneration process. Because his testosterone level is so low, it is not necessary for him to attract and impress females or challenge male competitors. Once the antlers are fully grown and the regeneration is complete, the shedding cycle will begin once again when mating season concludes.

  1. Seasonal

    • Antler growth and shedding are related to the changing seasons. The shorter days in the fall and early winter result in a decrease in a buck's testosterone level, bringing about antler shedding.

    Annual Event

    • Antlers are shed every year after the autumn mating season. This process usually takes two to three weeks to complete.

    Individuality

    • An individual deer will shed his antlers at approximately the same time every year. The deer may also drop both antlers within a 48-hour period.

    Time Period

    • The shedding process occurs over several months, usually January through April. The time period may vary depending on the individual deer and region of the country.

    Regrowth

    • Once the antler shedding is complete, the regeneration process begins. Antlers are the fastest growing tissue in the animal kingdom, growing an average of one to two inches per week during spring and summer.