Wyrónienie

Wyrónienie is a Polish term that refers to the shedding of antlers by deer and other cervids. This is a natural and cyclical process that occurs annually. The shedding is typically triggered by changes in hormone levels, often influenced by seasonal factors such as daylight hours and temperature.

After the antlers are shed, new ones begin to grow. This regrowth process is quite rapid and the antlers are covered in a velvety skin rich in blood vessels that nourishes the developing bone. Once the antlers have reached their full size and hardened, the velvet dries, cracks, and is rubbed off by the animal against trees and other vegetation. The resulting hardened, bony antlers are then used for defense, dominance displays, and in battles with rivals. The size and complexity of the antlers can vary greatly depending on the species, age, health, and genetic makeup of the individual animal. The discarded antlers decompose and return nutrients to the soil.