Gathering shed antlers or horns

Before you go "shed hunting" between Jan. 1 and May 31, take the Antler Gathering Ethics Course

If you would like to gather shed antlers or horns — or parts of shed antlers or horns — in Utah from Jan. 1 to May 31, you must have an antler-gathering certificate on your person. (You can either carry a paper copy of the certificate or download it to your Utah Hunting and Fishing app.) You do not need an antler-gathering certificate at any other time of the year.

You can obtain this free certificate after completing the online Antler Gathering Ethics Course. You must complete the course and obtain a certificate every year.

Important: The antler-gathering certificate does not authorize you to trepass on closed areas or private lands to collect shed antlers or horns. Always obtain permission from the landowner before entering private lands.

Emergency closures

In the event that harsh winter conditions trigger emergency feeding of big game, the DWR Director will close shed hunting statewide in order to improve the chances of survival for deer and other big game animals. On private land, shed antlers may be moved if they are interfering with normal agricultural practices.

What if I find antlers or horns attached to a skull?

If you find a skull with the antlers or horns still attached (called a "deadhead"), it's possible the animal was poached. Do not pick up or move the skull, or disturb footprints or other evidence. Report your find using the DWR's Deadhead Reporter app (see the app page for instructions; contact a Division office if you have any issues with the app).

Once you've reported a deadhead through the app, the DWR will review the information you've provided and either send a conservation officer to investigate if the animal was poached, or (under certain conditions) provide you with a license allowing you to keep the deadhead immediately.

What if I want to sell what I gather?

Recently, the Utah Wildlife Board approved a rule that allows legally obtained shed antlers and horns to be purchased or sold at any time in a whole or altered state. However, a Certificate of Registration is required for commercial antler buyers. The COR costs $150 and can be purchased online, at a DWR office or from any available license agent. It is valid for 365 days.

(A "commercial antler buyer" is an individual or entity that buys antlers or horns for the purpose of reselling for financial gain. It is not a shed hunter who picks up antlers from the ground and sells them to an antler buyer.)

Frequently asked questions

Question: I've bought some deer antlers that I intend to cut up, make into jewelry and sell at a craft fair. Do I need a COR?

Answer: Yes, if you buy antlers or horns and resell them to make money, a COR is required.

Question: I went shed hunting and picked up one side of an elk set. Another shed hunter picked up the other side. I'd like to buy the other side from the shed hunter, but I have no intention of selling it. Do I need a COR?

Answer: No, a COR only applies to those who purchase and resell for financial gain.

Question: I have a dog chew business. I buy antlers from shed hunters, cut them up and sell them online. Do I need a COR?

Answer: Yes.