Video: "Antlers: What are they good for?" - CPW
Shed Antler Regulations
Shed antler and horn collection on all public lands west of I-25 is prohibited from January 1 through April 30, annually. The purpose of this regulation is to reduce stress on wintering big game animals during the time of year when big game animals such as deer, elk, pronghorn and moose are most vulnerable.
Wildlife Stressors
Mule deer attempt to minimize their energy expenditures in winter because of reduced available habitat and low quality forage. Winter disturbance by humans can require deer to expend unnecessary energy, which can affect survival and reproduction. Stress associated with movement and displacement of mule deer by shed antler hunters adds to their physiological strain and potentially reduces their survival to spring. Lower survival and reproduction can ultimately reduce the number of deer available for hunting and viewing.
Activities that can stress wildlife during winter:
- Recreational activities like hiking running, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling
- Recreating with dogs because deer react more strongly to the perceived threat from dogs.
- Shed antler hunters using domestic dogs trained to hunt and retrieve shed antlers. They have used dogs to chase deer and pick up antlers when they fall off.
- Shed antler hunters operating road vehicles and snowmobiles searching for antlers.
- Chasing deer over fences hoping antlers fall or as the buck jumps the fence.
- Using drones to scout big bucks for antlers already shed.
- Using “antler traps” that essentially lure bucks into bait sites rigged with wires, ropes or other apparatus to snag antlers and knock them off.
Violations
Once an antler or horn drops, why is it still the purview of CPW? It is no longer 'wildlife.'
Shed antlers or shed horns are still considered "wildlife" based on the statutory definition, which includes any parts thereof and whether alive or dead.
Violators of these regulations may now face a $137 fine per violation. The act of shed antler hunting, as well as the illegal possession of each shed antler, are now viewed as separate offenses subject to individual fines. In addition to fines, each violation carries five license suspension points that are assessed against the violator's privilege to apply for, purchase, or exercise the benefits conferred by any licenses issued by CPW.
Anyone that observes illegal activity is urged to contact their local wildlife office.
Private lands are not included in the shed antler collection closure in Colorado. Possession of antlers or horns on private property without lawful access is prohibited.
If you are hiking, walking, or visiting in an area where there is currently a shed antler and horn collecting closure and you see an antler or horn, you should leave it alone. There is no way for a CPW officer to differentiate between you and someone who entered the area for the purpose of shed collecting.
