About 145,000 deer are legally harvested in Georgia every year. This is about one-fourth of the state's deer population. Nearly half the deer population is probably less than one year old. Most bucks shed their antlers during January and February. Antler size depends upon genetics, age, and nutrition.
Age is determined by examining teeth replacement and wear.
A deer eats about a ton of food a year. A piece of venison returned to the landowner who allowed you to hunt on his land may make you an especially welcomed guest the next hunting season. The University of Georgia and Ft. Valley State College, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and counties of the state cooperating. The Cooperative Extension Service offers educational programs, assistance and materials to all people without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability.