The antlers in this herd of 14 are in different stages. Some have already fallen off. One deer was rubbing his stack against a wood stump, trying to release it (photo#3). Another male is in the process of growing a new set and the velvet covering the growth is visible (photo#8). The more I get the opportunity to witness their behaviors in such a large group, the more I see that Key Deer are very loving animals towards each other. One buck was hanging his head very low and staring intensely at me (last photo) and although I know that they are usually friendly and harmless, I would not turn my back towards him as he looked as if he were in the “get ready to charge” position.
