If you plan to gather shed antlers in Utah between Feb. 1 and April 15, The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources says you need to first take its free online ethics course. When you’re done with the course, print out your antler-gathering certificate and carry it with you in the field.
The course is designed to protect animals during this critical time of year. Late winter and early spring is a tough time of year for deer, elk and moose. The animals often have a difficult time finding food. If you spook an animal and cause it to run, the animal has to use up fat reserves and energy it needs to survive through the winter. Moreover, the habitat that big game animals rely on in the winter is usually wet, making it more at risk to damage.
(Photo source: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources)