Back on March 30, I spotted this Whitetail Buck standing in the woods near the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. As you can see in the photo I took of him, he is growing a new set of antlers. These antlers are only a few inches long, but it will not be long before they will be much larger.
Antler Development Process:
The growth of antlers is a fascinating and intricate process, unique to deer species such as the Whitetail Buck. Each year, typically during the spring and summer months, these magnificent creatures shed their old antlers and embark on the arduous task of regenerating a new pair. This regeneration process is guided by a combination of hormonal changes and genetic factors, culminating in the growth of impressive, fully-formed antlers.
Initially, the antlers emerge as small, bony protrusions covered in velvet, which supplies essential nutrients to support their growth. The velvet acts as a protective layer and aids in blood circulation to nourish the developing antlers. As time progresses, the antlers experience a rapid growth spurt, sometimes increasing by an astonishing inch per day. The primary ingredients behind this accelerated growth are a rich blood supply and an abundance of vital nutrients.
During this phase, the Whitetail Buck’s antlers serve not only as aesthetic ornaments but also as formidable weapons during the mating season. The size, shape, and number of antler points are essential factors in determining the buck’s social dominance and reproductive success.
My encounter with the Whitetail Buck at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge was a testament to the captivating beauty of nature. Observing the early stages of antler growth in person and capturing it through my lens was a true privilege. As the weeks unfold, the Whitetail Buck’s antlers will continue their remarkable journey, gradually transforming into a magnificent set of antlers that will command respect and admiration.
Stay tuned for further updates as I continue to explore the wonders of wildlife photography and share my encounters with the mesmerizing creatures that inhabit our natural world.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: March 30, 2023 (06:51 A. M.)
- Aperture: f7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/250
- ISO: 12800 (Auto)
- Exp. Comp.: 0
- Focal Length: 500 mm
Hi Steve, I love these particular animals they always seem so serene, or should I say regal. However, some of them grow enormous antlers and I sometimes wonder if they weigh heavy on their heads or if they in fact get headaches. I feel quite sorry for them sometimes. Nature’s a wonderful thing anyway.