The discolouration of the antler after removal of the skin differs per species. Immediately after abrading the yellowish white of living bone can be seen. With deer, the whole darkens, with red deer the points remain white. The final color depends on the vegetation, but it is unclear whether this is due to the direct action of plant juices or via food. Blood residues also play a role in the color, perhaps because the surface of the antlers wear out and so uncover old veins. The main form of the antler is determined by the genes and is therefore the same and as unique as a fingerprint every year. Connoisseurs recognize an individual even when they have exchanged twice between encounters.
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