Arms Race
Antlers are thought to be among the fastest-forming bones in the world. During peak growth, a buck may add a quarter of an inch to his antlers each day.
Sort of Safe
Usually, neither buck gets hurt during sparring matches, but the strongest, pushiest one earns the chance to mate with more does.
Antlers Away!
In late winter, antlers begin to wobble like loose teeth. By February, most bucks have dropped, or shed, their well-worn headgear.
From Trash to Treasure
Lost antlers don’t go to waste. Squirrels, mice, and rabbits gnaw on the discarded bones to get calcium and other nutrients.
Also In This Issue
Hey. I’m Jay.
What? You thought I’d be named Mike or Liam? Wrong! I’m your basic loud but lovable blue jay.
Sometimes nature is, well, weird. Here’s a look at some of Missouri’s animal oddities that might leave you scratching your head.
And More...
This Issue's Staff
Photographer – Noppadol Paothong
Photographer – David Stonner
Designer – Marci Porter
Art Director – Ben Nickelson
Editor – Matt Seek
Subscriptions – Marcia Hale
Magazine Manager – Stephanie Thurber