British Columbia CORE Hunting Practice Exam

What characteristic distinguishes species in the Cervidae family?

1. All males have antlers

2. They are all browsers

3. Antlers are shed annually

4. They lack hooves

The correct answer is: Antlers are shed annually

The characteristic that distinguishes species in the Cervidae family is that antlers are shed annually. This is a defining feature of members of the deer family, which includes various species such as white-tailed deer, elk, and moose. Antlers are unique to members of this family, and they grow and are shed in a seasonal cycle. This differs from horns, which are found in other families of animals (like bovids), and are not shed. The cycle of antler growth and shedding is influenced by hormonal changes related to the seasons, typically corresponding to changes in daylight hours. This annual shedding allows for the growth of new antlers each year, which can be larger and more impressive as the animal matures. Other options do not universally apply to all members of the Cervidae family. While many species within this family are browsers, not all species strictly adhere to this dietary preference. The statement about all males having antlers is also incorrect since some species exhibit variations, with females in certain species (like the reindeer) also possessing antlers. Finally, all members of the Cervidae family have hooves, as they are ungulates, making the notion of them lacking hooves inaccurate. Thus, the correct distinguishing feature is the annual shedding