During a recent wildlife photography trip to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I had the opportunity to observe several Whitetail Bucks. Most of them had already shed their antlers, which is typical for this time of year. However, I was fortunate to spot one Buck that had shed only one side.
Whitetail Buck Shedding: A Rare Wildlife Photography Opportunity
Whitetail Bucks typically shed both antlers within a short time of each other. Hoping to capture this rare moment on camera, I kept my lens focused on the one-antlered Buck. Unfortunately, nature had other plans—the Buck wandered off before dropping the remaining antler. Still, I was thrilled to document this transitional phase with a unique photo.
Why You Should Never Collect Shed Antlers in Wildlife Refuges
If you visit a refuge during shedding season, you might come across shed antlers on the ground. While these natural finds are fascinating, it’s important to remember that collecting them is prohibited in National Wildlife Refuges. Leaving antlers undisturbed helps preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Rodents and other small animals rely on shed antlers as a source of calcium and other nutrients, playing an essential role in nature’s recycling process.
For more information, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service outlines these rules in their Shed Antler Collection Policy.
For more on the beauty and significance of shed antlers, check out my blog post: Capturing the Beauty of Shed Antlers.
Wildlife Photography in Oklahoma: A Rewarding Experience
Although I didn’t witness the actual shedding, this outing was still a memorable success. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge continues to be a top destination for wildlife photography, offering countless opportunities to observe and capture animals in their natural environment.