Do Velvet Antlers Require Special Treatment?

Handling Velvet Antlers

When handling velvet antlers, it’s essential to minimize damage and promote healthy growth. Always wear gloves to prevent oils from your skin from drying out the delicate velvet. Avoid touching the antlers excessively, as this can cause them to become discolored or develop imperfections.

Preparing Velvet Antlers for Display

To preserve velvet antlers for display, you’ll need to carefully remove the velvet. This process typically begins 20-30 days before the antlers are fully grown, allowing the bone to harden and the velvet to dry out naturally. Use a sharp knife or a specialized velvet remover to carefully scrape off the velvet, working from the base of the antler upwards to prevent damage.

Antler Point Restriction Regulations

Antler point restriction (APR) regulations vary by state and region, but they often require a minimum number of points on one or both antlers to be harvested. To ensure compliance, measure the antlers carefully, taking note of the number and length of points on each side. In many states, APR regulations are in place to conserve deer populations and promote sustainable hunting practices.