What To Do If You Find A Deer's Shed Antlers In Your Yard

Crossing paths with shed antlers can lead to one of those moments that can make or break your day, depending on your perspective. Male deer shed their antlers every year — usually between winter and early spring — as part of their natural cycle. If you've discovered one (or more), it likely means a buck has been traipsing through your yard regularly. That prospect either makes you run and grab a bathroom essential to save your garden from hungry deer, or you do a little dance of glee because those antlers are just what your home decor needs. But before you claim them as your own, there are some important things to know.

Shed antler hunting has turned into a popular outdoor hobby. But not every antler is legal to pick up. It's usually illegal to remove shed antlers from public land, but regulations will vary by state. That means you can't stop on the side of the road to pick up deer antlers. But you're not out of luck. Some states, like Utah, let you hunt for shed antlers, but during the first half of the year, this can only be done after you've taken an Antler Gathering Ethics course. However, if you happen to stumble upon them on your land, it's usually completely legal to hold onto them provided they aren't attached to any part of the skull, in which case local regulations may apply. When in doubt, you should check your state regulations to know the law. 

Whether you decide to repurpose them or leave them as they are, shed antlers are a little reminder that wildlife is closer than you might expect — even in the suburbs.

Deer antlers are durable and low-maintenance, making them worth keeping if you find some in your yard. Antlers can elevate your decor or become functional pieces. Thanks to their natural, organic shape, they bring a sculptural aesthetic that works in both rustic and modern homes. But before you start any project, be sure you know how to clean the antlers.

Antlers can be pretty home decor, whether sitting on a shelf, a coffee table, as a centerpiece, or in an entryway. And if you have two semi-symmetric ones, you can create an antler mount without the deer hunt. If you want something that combines function, a decorative element, and a new DIY, antlers can be cool wall hooks for hanging coats, hats, or bags, as well as a DIY towel rack. With the right antler shape, there's nothing stopping you from turning them into indoor planter holders. You can even spray paint them to match your decor. Smaller antler pieces can be repurposed as drawer pulls or cabinet handles, instantly adding oomph to your furniture.

Shed antlers can also boost your outdoor space. Add them to gardens or planters to blend into the landscape as they weather. Or, use an antler as a sturdy base for a whimsical wind chime. Whether your goal is to lean into rustic design trends or add nature-inspired accents, shed antlers won't overwhelm your space but will bring a quiet ambiance only nature can offer.