Why Deer Peel the Skin Off Their Antlers #animals #shorts

Deer shedding antler velvet is a natural part of the antler growth cycle. This deer rubs its antlers against a tree to strip away the covering and expose the hardened bone underneath. Velvet is living skin covered in fine hair, with blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the growing antlers. It also contains nerves, making developing antlers sensitive. Once growth finishes and the antlers harden, the velvet loses its blood supply, dries out and starts peeling away. Rubbing against trees and branches helps remove the loose tissue. Velvet shedding and antler shedding are 2 different stages. The velvet comes off first, leaving the hard antlers in place. Later, the antlers themselves fall off, and a new set grows during the next annual cycle. #animals #wildlife #nature #natureholic #deer #antlers Deer shedding velvet, antler velvet removal, deer rubbing antlers on trees, deer antler growth, why deer shed velvet, velvet skin, antler growth cycle, deer facts, antlers explained, deer behaviour, deer behavior, hardened antlers, antlers made of bone, annual antler regrowth, deer family, wildlife facts, animal biology, animal facts, Natureholic, nature shorts, animal shorts