Caribou Antlers: Growth and Purpose

The video explores the fascinating growth cycle of caribou antlers, which are unique in that they grow and are shed annually. Male caribou begin growing antlers each spring, with the antlers being living tissue covered in a sensitive skin called velvet. Each caribou has a unique velvet pattern that can regenerate yearly. The velvet eventually dies and is shed, leaving the caribou with hard, bone-like antlers used for fighting. This transformation is crucial for understanding the purpose of antlers and their role in caribou behavior.

What is the approximate weight of antlers that caribou grow and shed each year?

• 20 pounds

• 15 pounds

• 10 pounds

• 5 pounds

What is the term used for the sensitive skin covering the antlers?

• Wool

• Velvet

• Fur

• Silk

How do caribou antlers differ from human limbs in terms of regeneration?

• They grow back twice a year

• They do not grow back at all

• They grow back in the same pattern each year

• They grow back in a different shape each year

Why do male caribou shed the velvet from their antlers?

• To reduce weight

• To prepare for battles

• To improve hearing

• To attract mates

What is one reason male caribou undergo the transformation of their antlers?

• To camouflage in the snow

• To fight battles

• To swim faster

• To enhance their vision