Colorado's shed antler season: What is it and why is hunting them so popular?
Hunting for shed antlers has become such a popular activity in recent years that Colorado Parks and Wildlife has to warn collectors not to hunt before the season starts.
Shed antlers are antlers dropped by elk, deer, pronghorn antelope and moose annually as part of of their natural lifecycle. Depending on the animal, antlers can be dropped from November into April.
The antlers are prized by collectors and others to use for things like decorations, door handles, chandeliers, chairs, wall art, dog chews and as traditional medicine in China and Asia.
What months are your prohibited from collecting shed antlers?
Jan. 1 through April 30 on all public lands west of Interstate 25. The closure extends to May 15 in the Gunnison Basin due to concerns for the Gunnison sage grouse.
For more details about shed antler hunting, visit Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website.
Why is shed antler hunting prohibited during these months?
To reduce stress on wintering elk, deer, pronghorn antelope and moose during the time of year when these animals are most vulnerable due to reduced body weight and limited food supply.
The dates also closely align with restrictions in neighboring states.
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Are other kinds of recreating and hunting allowed in areas where shed collecting is prohibited?
Yes. The restrictions overlap some hunting seasons, but the pressure from hunters on the animals is limited by the number of hunting license holders for that season.
If you are hiking or enjoying other forms of recreation in an area where there is currently a shed antler collecting closure and you see an antler, leave it lie. There is no way for a wildlife officer to differentiate between you and someone who entered the area for the purpose of shed collecting.
Can you collect shed antlers on private property?
Closures do not apply to private land, but it is unlawful to collect sheds on private property unless a person has lawful access to that property.
How much are the shed antlers worth?
According to various websites, deer and elk antlers in good to excellent condition generally bring $8 to $16 per pound, with elk antlers more valuable than deer. Buyers will also purchase sets of antlers in quality condition for hundreds of dollars.
Is there a fine if caught for violating the closure?
Violators may now face a $137 fine for shed antler hunting during restricted months, another $137 for illegal possession of each shed antler and $137 for harassing wildlife.
What should you do if you see someone collecting shed antlers illegally?
Anyone who observes illegal activity is urged to contact their local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office.
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This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: In Colorado, hunting for elk, deer antlers growing in popularity
