SALT LAKE CITY — Gathering shed antlers is a popular winter and spring pastime in Utah, but the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) has announced new requirements for enthusiasts. Effective this year, anyone collecting shed antlers between **January 1 and May 31** must complete a free, mandatory Antler Gathering Ethics Course.

The rule change, approved by the Utah Wildlife Board in May 2024, extends the previous requirement, which applied only from February 1 through April 15. The course is designed to minimize stress on wildlife and protect habitats during a vulnerable time of year for big game animals.

Why the Course Matters

Big game animals such as deer, elk, and moose shed their antlers in winter and grow new ones in spring. While collecting these antlers is an enjoyable hobby, it can negatively impact wildlife if not done responsibly.

“During winter, big game animals often struggle to find enough food,” said **Rusty Robinson**, DWR Once-In-A-Lifetime Species Coordinator. “Disturbances caused by people shed hunting can force these animals to burn critical fat reserves needed for survival.”

Additionally, wet habitats are more prone to damage from foot traffic, making it essential to tread lightly.

Course Details

The Antler Gathering Ethics Course is free and available online through the DWR website. It must be completed annually before venturing out between January 1 and May 31.

Once completed, participants must:

– Store the certificate in the **DWR Hunting and Fishing app or

– Print the certificate and carry it while collecting antlers.

Failure to complete the course or harassing protected wildlife may result in citations by DWR conservation officers.

Restricted Areas for Antler Gathering

Antler gathering is prohibited in certain areas:

– Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Many WMAs are closed during winter and spring to protect wildlife and habitats. Closures are listed on the DWR website.

– Private Property: Written permission is required to gather antlers.

– Native American Lands, National Parks, and Monuments: These areas are also off-limits.

Commercial Shed Hunting Rules

A new law passed in May 2024 allows legally obtained shed antlers to be bought or sold. However, commercial antler buyers must obtain a **certificate of registration** for resale purposes. Recreational shed hunters can still sell antlers to commercial buyers without additional permits.

Reporting “Deadheads

Finding a skull with antlers or horns still attached — known as a “deadhead” — may indicate poaching. Such discoveries should be reported immediately through the **Utah Deadhead Reporter app**, available for download when cellular service is available.

Reports must include:

– DWR customer ID

– GPS location

– Photos of the skull and scene

– Additional relevant details

Conservation officers may allow the person reporting the find to keep the antlers if the animal’s death was determined to be natural or non-suspicious.

Get Started

With over 20,000 Utahns participating in shed hunting each year, the **Antler Gathering Ethics Course** promotes sustainable practices and preserves wildlife health.

For more information, visit the **Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or call your nearest DWR office.