First or second antler to drop

[charlie 01]

Here are some pics of bases of first and second antlers to drop. Usually and almost always the first antler off, (unless knocked off while fighting) will have a smooth pedicle area at the base. And an antler pedicle base that has some kind of burr on it is generally the second one to go. The burr is an indication that it was knocked off. Again, nothing is cut in stone, but pretty much on the money for most of the time.

IMG_2494-1.jpg (24.07 KiB) Viewed 457 times

IMG_2499-1.jpg (26.9 KiB) Viewed 457 times

So, if you find a shed antler that has a burr of any kind on it, it's safe to say the other side is on the ground and that he is not still carrying it, although somebody else might be. Also, coyotes will pick them up and carry it off for an untold distance.

[croz2173]

I havent heard that before about coyote picking sheds up. Do they chew them for the minerals or are they just interested in them do you think?

[4khorn]

Great post Charlie. Valuable information to have. The seasoned shed hunter that you are, how would you go about finding the first antler after finding an antler with a burr on it? Also, what area of Illinois are you from?

[charlie 01]

The seasoned shed hunter that you are, how would you go about finding the first antler after finding an antler with a burr on it? Also, what area of Illinois are you from?

Southwest suburbs of Chicago, Luke. The same way you would go about finding the second antler after finding one that is smooth or burrless, just keep on looking. All kidding aside, there is no positive answer to your question. It could be anywhere. I have found some that were over a mile away from each other. Then with some, the other side is never found. This year was a first, found a large pair that were 10 or 12 ft. apart that had burrs on both pedicles. I have to believe they were knocked off while fighting, or he felt thay were ready and schook them both off.

[charlie 01]

I havent heard that before about coyote picking sheds up. Do they chew them for the minerals or are they just interested in them do you think?

They seem to treat it as some kind of toy and some will chew on them, espescially if the antler has a drop tine and the tip of it is soft. Much like some dogs chew antler pieces. With the influx of coyotes lately, I find this quite often these days. Getting to be anoying.