Document Actions
(4) Problems Associated with Antler Restrictions when Managing for Older-aged Bucks
Bill Hamrick, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
Bronson Strickland, Stephen Demarais, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
Session: Poster session
Many deer management programs are designed to improve antler size of harvested bucks. Extension specialists routinely recommend habitat management and selective harvest to accomplish this objective. The use of antler restrictions as a selective harvest method to increase buck age structure has become very popular, and has proved to be effective. Because smaller-antlered bucks are typically younger than bucks with large antlers, hunters are able to selectively harvest older bucks. However, in deer populations with heavy hunting pressure this may actually result in degradation of antler size at the cohort level. Over time, intensively harvesting the larger-antlered bucks within cohorts can cause average antler size to decline. We will present evidence from several populations in Mississippi where age composition of harvested bucks improved following antler restrictions, but age-specific antler size declined. Furthermore, we will present information on the inefficiency of antler restrictions to produce older-aged bucks. Appropriate use of antler restrictions and alternative ways to improve buck age structure will be discussed. Extension specialists must be aware of the pros and cons of antler restrictions and how to apply them appropriately to develop a successful buck management program.
Bill Hamrick
Mississippi State University
Dept. Wildlife & Fisheries
Box 9690
MSU, MS, 39762, USA
Phone: 662-325-8141
Fax: 662-325-8726
Email: wwhamrick@gmail.com