The reason antlers are lost is due to a reduction in testosterone after the rut. When a buck's testosterone levels drop, the tissue and bone at the antler base (pedicle) deteriorate to the point where the antlers come off. Testosterone also plays a role in the growth of the velvet surrounding the antler. The pedicle can be damaged by other animals as well as environmental factors such as wind and ice. If enough force is applied to the pedicle, it will break off from the main body of the deer. Antlers will usually fall off between October and January, depending on the weather conditions. In warmer climates like those in the South, antlers may fall off as early as August while in colder regions like those in the North they can stay on into March or April. It all depends on how long the rut lasts and how much damage is done to the pedicle during that time. When an antler falls off, be sure to note the date it happened- you will need this information to reinstate your license. You can tell if an antler has been removed by looking for signs such as blood or skin tags near the spot where the antler used to be. You should never try to pull off an antler because it could cause serious injuries.