When Do Moose Antlers Begin to Paddle?

Mature moose antlers are called paddles because of their broad shapes.

Searching for shed antlers is an engaging outdoor hobby. The annual cycle of the moose helps antler hunters predict when the impressive paddle-shaped antlers will make their appearance.

Antler Growth

A young moose with short, stubby antlers.

Moose are born in late spring, and male calves show the nubs of their first antlers within a few weeks. The new antlers are covered with velvet, which delivers nutrients to the growing bone beneath. The antlers reach their maximum size for the year by late August, and the velvet dries and falls off.

Antler Structure

A collection of moose paddles

The small antlers of male moose begin to form palmated, or hand-shaped, paddles when the moose are about 3 years old. They grow larger each year, reaching more than 5 feet wide and weighing more than 60 lbs.

Annual Shedding

Beginning in late November, after the mating season is over, males begin to drop their antlers to conserve nutrients and energy for the winter. When an antler falls off, the site heals quickly. The fallen antlers are often consumed by rodents and other small mammals for their calcium.

Antler Hunting

A warning sign that moose are nearby

The winter shedding season is prime time for finding fallen antlers. Many states have regulations controlling the collection of the shed antlers and horns, so check regulations that may apply to public areas and obtain permission before searching on private property.

References

• Pinedale Online: Antler Hunting
• Wyoming Game and Fish Department: Hunting Regulations
• Animal Planet: Moose

Resources

• A Year in the Life of a Moose