Female whitetail deer typically do not possess antlers. This characteristic is overwhelmingly associated with male deer, or bucks, in most deer species. There are, however, rare exceptions where female whitetail deer can grow antlers. This phenomenon is an infrequent occurrence, primarily resulting from underlying biological factors that disrupt normal physiological processes.
The Norm: Antlers on Male Deer
Antlers are bony structures that grow from pedicles on a deer’s skull. Male whitetail deer grow and shed a new set of antlers annually, a cycle controlled by testosterone levels and day length. Antler growth begins in late spring, covered by a soft, vascularized skin called velvet, which supplies blood and nutrients for development. As summer progresses and testosterone levels rise, the antlers harden, and the velvet dries and is rubbed off, leaving polished bone.
Antlers serve several functions during the breeding season, known as the rut. Bucks use their antlers to establish dominance over other males, engaging in sparring or fights to secure breeding rights. Antlers also act as a visual display, signaling the male’s health and fitness to potential mates. After the rut, a drop in testosterone causes the antlers to shed.
When Females Have Antlers
While antler development is a male trait, female whitetail deer can, on rare occasions, grow antlers. When does grow antlers, they often differ in appearance from those of typical bucks. These antlers are usually smaller, less developed, and may appear misshapen or unbranched.
A notable characteristic of antlers on female deer is their tendency to remain in velvet. This indicates that the antlers have not fully hardened and the velvet has not been shed, which is a common outcome when testosterone levels are not high enough. In some instances, antlers on does may be barely discernible, appearing as small bumps or nubs on the head.
The Science Behind Female Antler Growth
Antler growth in female whitetail deer involves hormonal imbalances. Elevated levels of testosterone, a hormone predominantly found in males, can trigger antler development in does. These increased testosterone levels can stem from physiological disruptions.
Hormonal disorders affecting adrenal glands or ovaries may lead to testosterone overproduction. Older does or those with reproductive health issues might also exhibit hormonal fluctuations leading to antler growth. Another less common cause is true hermaphroditism, a rare condition where an individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs, which can influence hormonal profiles and lead to antler development. Injury to the pedicle, the growth plate for antlers, can result in abnormal antler formation, though this is more frequently observed in bucks.