So, what is the main factor in monster buck production?
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Some of the greatest research ever conducted on deer, particularly the trophy buck comes from the Kerr Wildlife Management Area (WMA).
Kerr WMA studies indicate that most antler traits are genetically transmitted.
“Heritability estimates greater than 0.30 are considered to be moderately heritable, and heritability estimates greater than 0.50 are highly heritable. Heritability estimates for weight gain in cattle range from 0.30 to 0.40.”
“Diesel”, the chief breeding buck at the Swenson Whitetail Ranch will be well over 350 inches in his fourth year. This deer has superior genetics, gets maximum nutrition and is getting to live to his potential.
No Kerr WMA studies were specifically designed to determine the effect of dam age on antler production.
“However, a review of data from the Kerr deer-pen studies indicated that age of the doe had no effect. When age of doe was analyzed by study, no relationship of age to spike production was found. The analysis did show that large numbers of spikes for all age classes were produced by spike-antlered sires.”
No Kerr WMA studies were specifically designed to determine the effect of dam age on antler production.
“However, a review of data from the Kerr deer-pen studies indicated that age of the doe had no effect. When age of doe was analyzed by study, no relationship of age to spike production was found. The analysis did show that large numbers of spikes for all age classes were produced by spike-antlered sires.”
Kerr officials noted that there are 3 equally important factors that control antler development in white-tailed deer: nutrition, genetics, and age.
“Antler development is genetically based, environmentally influenced, and reaches its peak at maturity. The key to quality deer management is to remove those bucks which have the least desirable antler characteristics at an early age. Kerr WMA studies show that yearling antlers predict a buck’s antler quality at maturity. Kerr genetic studies indicate bucks with the best antlers will produce more progeny with exceptional antlers than will poorer bucks. The does influence antler production as well. Harvest of older does is important to insure younger does are products of better bucks. Habitat should be managed so that deer can achieve their greatest antler potential. There are no methods to “jump-start” a quality deer program.”
TF&G Staff
