What is a button buck?

A button buck is a male white-tailed deer in its first year of life, characterized by having small, rounded bumps or "buttons" on its head instead of fully developed antlers. These "buttons" are the pedicles, the bony bases from which antlers will eventually grow.

Here are some key characteristics:

• Antlers: The most distinguishing feature is the lack of developed antlers. They possess only small, velvet-covered nubs. These pedicles are usually covered in hair and difficult to spot.

• Age: Button bucks are typically around six months old during the deer hunting season.

• Size: They are smaller than adult bucks and often weigh less than mature does.

• Identification: Identifying a button buck can be tricky, especially at a distance. Hunters must focus on the head and body shape and the presence (or absence) of visible antlers.

• Legal Protections: In some areas, there are specific hunting regulations regarding the harvest of button bucks to protect the young male deer population. Hunters must be aware of local regulations.