when do caribou lose their antlers

Caribou antlers are shed each year, typically around the end of the summer or early fall. This process is called "antler drop" and it's an important part of the caribou's life cycle. The new antlers that grow back are smaller and softer than the previous ones, making them easier for the caribou to carry around during winter. The shedding of the antlers also allows the caribou to conserve energy and nutrition, which is crucial for surviving the harsh winter months.