Stag Antlers

Stag Antlers

Stag antlers refer to the branched, bony structures that grow from the heads of male deer, known as stags. Antlers are a unique feature of deer, and are used primarily for display and combat during the mating season. Stag antlers are among the largest and most impressive of all antlers, with some species growing antlers that can span up to six feet in length and weigh over 40 pounds. Antlers begin to grow in the spring, and are covered in a soft, velvety skin that is rich in blood vessels and nerves. As the antlers grow, the skin begins to dry out and peel away, revealing the hard, bony structure beneath. Once the antlers are fully grown, the stag will use them to establish dominance over other males during the mating season. This often involves locking antlers with other stags and pushing or shoving each other until one of them gives up. Stag antlers are also used for display, with stags often using them to attract females during the mating season. The size and shape of the antlers can vary greatly between species, with some stags having antlers that are wide and flat, while others have antlers that are tall and narrow. The antlers can also be adorned with various bumps, ridges, and other decorative features that help to make them more attractive to females. Despite their impressive size and strength, stag antlers are not permanent structures. After the mating season is over, the stag will shed its antlers, and begin growing a new set the following spring. This process can repeat itself for many years, with some stags growing larger and more impressive antlers each year.

Deer, Mating, Dominance, Display, Shedding

— Jason Harris