0.05). From the second to the fifth year, a
gradual increase in antler weight (from 192.2 ± 30.41 g to 221.9 ± 61.86 g)
and antler volume (from 74 cm3 to 90 cm3) was observed, with the highest
values of antler weight (291.8 ± 58.43 g and 319.1 ± 98.89 g, respectively)
and antler volume (123.8 cm3 and 121.2 cm3) in six and seven year old
animals. Overall trophy scores increased from year one to year seven (42.6 ±
7.86 vs 97.4 ± 27.40), with differences in trophy scores for animals aged
six and seven years significantly greater than for animals aged one to five
years (P <0.001). The highest quality antlers have six and seven year olds,
at which time their hunting should be conducted." />