British Columbia CORE Hunting Practice Exam

When do antlers typically grow and shed in male ungulates?

1. Grow in the winter, shed in the spring

2. Grow in the summer, shed in the winter

3. Grow throughout the year, shed randomly

4. Grow in the spring, shed in the fall

The correct answer is: Grow in the summer, shed in the winter

Male ungulates typically grow their antlers during the spring and summer months. This growth period is characterized by high levels of testosterone, which stimulate the development of antlers covered in a layer of soft tissue known as velvet. This velvet supplies nutrients to support the rapid growth of the antlers. As autumn approaches and testosterone levels drop, the antlers harden and the velvet is shed, revealing the fully formed antlers underneath. Shed occurs after the mating season, usually in late winter or early spring, when the hormone levels change, leading to the natural shedding of the antlers. Therefore, the statement that their antlers grow during the summer months and are shed in the winter accurately reflects the biological processes of most male ungulates. The other options incorrectly represent the timing of antler growth and shedding, not aligning with the physiological and seasonal changes experienced by these animals.