Antlerless Albus

It is that time of year again when our Red Deer lose their antlers. If you have visited us over the last few days, then you may of thought we only have the one stag... Olivandeer... but our master stag, Albus Dumbledeer, cast his antlers a few days a go.

This happens every year during the Spring. Our red stags will drop their antlers before growing a new set, this growth starts straight away, and usually only takes around 16 weeks until they have a full set again. I expect Olivandeer will lose his before the Easter opening is over.

Each year their antlers grow slightly larger, as you can see from the photo above, but still stick to a familiar pattern. The first small set at the top is what Albus was wearing when he first arrived at the Centre, and the largest set at the bottom the ones Big Tom picked up from the paddock a few days a go.

The growth is remarkable... covered in a soft velvet, these antlers will grow noticeably over the weeks... possibly even days with Albus's crown! In the past I have taken photos weekly of the growth, and will attempt to do so again to show the speed of this process come the Summer when he has a full head again!