Олені скидають роги після сезону розмноження і вирощують нові
After the rut (breeding season) elk will shed their antlers. When elk naturally shed their antlers, the pedicles (the bony protrusions on the elk’s skull where the antlers grow) are often injured. After 1-2 weeks of healing, a new set of antlers starts to grow. If the pedicles are damaged, the next set of antlers will most likely grow asymmetrically.
Genetics, nutrition, overall health, and age affect how big an elk’s antlers will grow. Asymmetrical antlers are signs of malfunctions, health issues or injuries. Females are typically attracted to males with symmetrical antlers.
The life expectancy of a male elk is only half of a cow elk. Annual antler regrowth is a large contributing factor to this shorter life expectancy because the shedding process decreases the male’s energy and calcium reserves.
