Barry the Buck has undergone a big change since early July when his antler's were incased in 'velvet". Longer days kicked off a hormone change that lead to rapid neck muscle and antler growth. The "velvet" is covered with blood vessels and nerves and is extremely sensitive.
When the antlers are fully grown, the bone cells die, the velvet dries up and falls off. We got to see Barry during this transition. He was a hot mess with strips of velvet hanging down his face and the pedicles (where the antlers attach to the head) a raw and red looking.
Now the antlers are bony.
You can see where they attach to his head on this photo.
After the mating period, with the days growing shorter, the buck's testosterone levels will drop and he will shed his antlers.
Deer puberty! He is a handsome fellow!
ReplyDeleteI've seen some of this in nature, but once again you shared plenty of new and interesting info for me. Nature is truly amazing. Barry the buck may be happy to get the weight off when he drops his antlers. Interesting photo that shows what happens at their base.
ReplyDeleteBarry buck is still a handsome fella. Thank you for capturing the changes he is experiencing with his antlers. I have never seen close ups like you have shared, Beth.
ReplyDeleteI hope nobody shots him. Beautiful creature. hugs
ReplyDeleteHe's really a handsome guy. I wasn't aware the antlers fall off. So they grow back each year? I'm gonna have to look that up!
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