Antler gathering course
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Shed antlers on the ground

Gathering shed antlers or horns

Take the Antler Gathering Ethics Course between Feb. 1 and April 15

You may gather shed antlers or horns — or parts of shed antlers or horns — statewide, but there is one seasonal requirement.

From Feb. 1 to April 15, you must have an antler-gathering certificate on your person while collecting shed antlers or horns. (You can either carry a paper copy of the certificate or carry it digitally on the 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 completing the online Antler Gathering Ethics Course, but you must complete the course 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.

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.

Quick links
Wildlife Blog: Views from DWR employees
» Wildlife Blog
Report poachers — 1-800-662-3337
» Report poachers
Wildlife dates
» Important dates
Hunter, angler mobile app
Hunter Education: Sign up for classes
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