PA started Antler Restrictions a few years ago.

There are certainly many more nicer bucks now as opposed to then.

Everyone seems to think the herd is healthier now.

The thing everyone fails to realize is, the bucks are just older. They aren't any more healthy than the young bucks were years ago.

Before, most bucks( about 75% ) were killed their first year with their first rack. There were fewer deer that would survive long enough to let time increase their rack size.

Now with ARs bucks live longer and therefore gain a few years and with that a bigger rack.


Does anyone feel that the older bucks of today are any less healthy than the 1 1/2 years old bucks of yesterday?

They have the same genes, eat the same food now as they did then. the only difference is age.

To me, an older deer isn't a healthier deer.


I know my anology isn't exactly what the topic is here. I just wanted to explain how some people confuse what a healthy deer is.