included total points and antler tine lengths. Measurements
like tine branching angles and pedicle seal depth showed
low mathematical symmetry but had strong visual
symmetry, unique to each buck like a fingerprint.
Interestingly, we found the antlers of older deer were
more symmetrical than younger deer for more than 90%
of the measurements investigated. These findings suggest
that older, stronger or the most fit bucks are more suited to
cope with and buffer out environmental stressors during
antler development than younger individuals resulting in
more symmetric antlers.
Investigating antler symmetry is a valuable tool to
understand the developmental impacts of environmental
stressors such as habitat quality, individual health and
competition within deer populations. By researching
these patterns, we can get a snapshot of the ecological
and physiological forces behind antler development,
highlighting the intricate balance between environmental
conditions, health, age and genetics in shaping one
of nature's most fascinating and fastest-growing
structures.
N
Brian Peterson is a biologist and online academic program
advisor for the Masters of Science Biology Program at
the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He and UNK
undergraduate student Bryce Sutton's published research
focused on white-tailed deer antler development and growth.
For more information, contact petersonbc@unk.edu.
UG2
BCG2
H1
H2
H3
H4
G4
G3
G2
G1
BCG1
BPG1
UMB1
MBL
BCG3
BCG4
BPG4
BPG3
BPG2
BAG1
UG3
UG4
UG1
Main Beam Length - MBL
Antler Points - G
Tine Length - UG
Main Beam Circumference - H
Antler Tine Circumference - BCG
Tine Branching Angle - BAG
Branching Point of Each Tine - BPG
Like a fingerprint,
each buck's pedicle
seal has a unique
appearance. While
pedicle seal depth
varied mathematically,
it remained visually
symmetrical between
antlers. The examples
shown illustrate
concave (top) and
convex (bottom)
pedicle seal bases,
unique to each
individual.
ILLUSTRATION BY DYLAN RILEY
August-September 2026 • Nebraskaland 55
