I didnt know either, so I stole this info.....The whole process is repeated every year for the rest of his life. As for the reason antlers are shed, it's due to a drop in testosterone following the rut. When a buck's testosterone levels fall, it causes a weakening in the tissue and bone at the antler base (pedicle) to the point where the antlers simply fall off. I never would have known this if you didn't post the photo. Nice shot, btw.
