Can you tell the age of a deer by the size of its antlers?

Antlers are an iconic symbol of deer, but many people wonder if antler size can be used to determine the age of a deer. The answer is not straightforward, as antler size can be influenced by factors other than age, such as nutrition and genetics.

Antler size does generally increase with age, but there is no exact correlation between age and antler size. Some young deer may have large antlers, while some older deer may have smaller ones.

However, there are other physical features that can be used to estimate the age of a deer, such as the shape of the face, the size of the body, and the coloration of the coat. These features, along with other factors like tooth wear and body condition, can provide a more accurate estimate of a deer's age.

It is important to note that in most areas, it is illegal to harvest a deer that is too young or too old. Hunters are usually required to have a license and to follow specific regulations, which may include rules regarding the size and age of the deer they are allowed to take.