It isn't unusual for a small percentage of bucks to drop antlers in December here in Maryland. Usually the oldest bucks first and probably linked to changes in hormone levels following the rut. One of thedrawbacksof having an early January antlerless hunt, as we are thisyear,is the occasional killing of a buck which has dropped his antlers. Bucks willsometimes drop antlers as the result of injury as well. Hopefully not the case with your deer.