Challenging

A male deer is called a buck. The size of the buck depends on many factors, including longevity, his herd's sex composition, age, and environmental conditions.

The most unique feature of a buck is his antlers. Each winter, the buck will shed its antlers and grow new ones in the spring.

Dominance is very important to the male deer. If challenged, a larger buck will go into a stare down with all the other bucks. Out of fear, most bucks will avoid eye contact. However, if a brave opponent is found, the two duelers will lock antlers, and then pull away. This occurs several times until one buck yields from the fight due to injuries.

A dominant buck presents himself as proud and unafraid, with head held high and tail extended straight back. Dominant bucks have distinguishing dark hair tufts covering the lower leg which serve to dispense the buck's unique glandular scent distinguishing him as the sire of the herd.