10 Amazing Facts About Velvet Antlers Did you know velvet is hot to the touch and has its own insect repellent? Over the next three months, buck racks will grow at a fast and furious pace, and the process is nothing short of amazing. Here’s a look at 10 interesting facts. 1. Growing antlers consist of a core of developing bone and cartilage covered with velvet. The antlers grow out and up from the tips, as cartilage is replaced by bone. 2. According to scientists at the Mississippi State Deer Lab, velvet antlers grow rapidly in late spring and summer, as much as 3/4 inch a week for yearling bucks and 1 1/2 inches per week for adults. 3. Did you know that velvet antlers, which grow via a complex system of blood vessels, are hot to the touch? Top whitetail scientist Dr. Grant Woods says, “There is so much blood carrying protein and minerals to a buck’s antlers this time of year that even small racks are easily detected by thermal imaging devices. Antlers glow like neon signs when [you’
Post: 10 June 09:38
