Antler Hunters Warned: Don't Harass Deer, Elk

Antler collecting is growing in popularity in Colorado. Unfortunately, as more people venture onto winter range to search for the sheds, deer and elk can be adversely affected.
     
The big-game animals shed their antlers during January and February and collectors seek to pick them up as soon after they drop as possible. But when collectors approach deer and elk it causes significant stress in the animals.
     
“Winter is a tough time of year for deer and elk, they are working just to maintain their weight and strength,” said J Wenum, area wildlife manager for the Colorado Division of Wildlife in Gunnison. “When people get within a half mile of them, the animals get nervous and burn valuable energy as they are forced to move away.”
     
DOW wildlife managers urge collectors to stay as far away from the animals as possible. It is not illegal to collect antlers; however, it is illegal to harass wildlife.
     
Besides stressing the animals, collecting activity often moves deer and elk from public land onto private land. Deer and elk move in bunches at this time of year, and herds of animals can cause significant damage to crops, fences and property.
     
Collectors must stay off private property and also be aware of winter closures on public land that are meant to protect wildlife. Numerous state wildlife areas and some federal lands are closed to the public until early summer. 
     
“If people use common sense they’ll be able to collect antlers and allow the animals the peace and quiet they need at this time of year,” Wenum said. “If you see animals, stay away from them. There are plenty of areas to look for antlers where animals are not feeding.”
     
DOW wildlife officers will be patrolling popular areas during the antler-shedding season. If you see collectors disturbing animal herds, please call the local DOW office or any other local law enforcement.

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