Getting Halfway to a Shed of the Week
Introduction
As the bell curve peaks around mid-February, white-tailed deer begin to shed their antlers, providing an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts to find and collect these natural wonders. In this article, we’ll explore the world of shed hunting and share some valuable insights on where to find these magnificent specimens.
The Art of Shed Hunting
Shed hunting is a fascinating activity that requires patience, persistence, and knowledge of the terrain. It’s essential to understand the habits and habitats of white-tailed deer, as well as the regulations surrounding shed hunting in your area. In Illinois, for example, it’s prohibited at all forest preserves and park districts, but allowed on Fish and Wildlife Areas, Conservation Areas, and Boat Access Areas, if open to the public.
A Special Find
Jim Tufford of Munster, Indiana, recently had the privilege of photographing a magnificent one-antlered buck at Vollmer Road Grove, a Forest Preserves of Cook County property near Matteson. This find is a rare treat, as usually, quality bucks are only spotted during the rut in the fall. Catching a buck in the middle of dropping antlers is a special experience that requires timing and knowledge of the deer’s behavior.
Tips for Shed Hunters
If you’re new to shed hunting or looking to improve your chances of finding these natural wonders, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Know your territory: Familiarize yourself with the area you’ll be hunting, including the terrain, deer trails, and potential food sources.
- Understand deer behavior: Study the habits and migrations of white-tailed deer to increase your chances of finding sheds.
- Be patient: Shed hunting requires patience and persistence, so be prepared to spend time in the field.
- Respect the environment: Always follow local regulations and respect private property, as well as the environment, to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable experience.
Getting Involved in Shed of the Week
The Shed of the Week is a celebration of finding shed antlers and their stories, with a focus on the stories behind the finds. This feature is published in the Chicago Sun-Times on Wednesdays and welcomes submissions from enthusiasts. To share your own shed finds and stories, email BowmanOutside@gmail.com or contact Dale Bowman on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time for shed hunting?
A: The peak season for shed hunting is usually around mid-February, when the bell curve peaks.
Q: Where can I find shed antlers in Illinois?
A: You can find shed antlers on private land with permission, Fish and Wildlife Areas, Conservation Areas, and Boat Access Areas, if open to the public. However, it’s prohibited at all forest preserves and park districts.
Q: How do I get involved in Shed of the Week?
A: Share your shed finds and stories by emailing BowmanOutside@gmail.com or contacting Dale Bowman on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
