New evidence of high frequency of antler wounding in cervids

Abstract

Seventy-two tanned, dehaired hides of four species of cervids from western Canada were examined for evidence of injuries. Combat injuries were segregated from injuries incurred from other sources. Forty-six of 55 males 1.5 years of age and older were scarred, as were 14 of 15 females. Of 15 males 1.5 years of age, 7 showed no scars, nor did two 6-month-old male fawns. Only 1of 22 male cervids over 2.5 years of age showed no combat scars. The frequency of wounding in males was 0–225, and in females0–18 per individual. About three-quarters of the scars were on the neck and haunches, about equally divided between these areas. The longest healed scar measured 420 mm; about 20% of the scars exceeded 100 mm in length. Field observations greatly underestimate wounding in cervids. A few males appear to opt out of rutting, but opt in when opportunity allows. The "dove" strategy is rare, but evidence from hides indicates that it does exist, confirming field observation.