Reindeer antlers are unique among deer species because both male and female reindeer grow them. These antlers are made of bone and can grow up to four feet long. They are typically covered in a layer of velvet, which supplies nutrients as they grow. Reindeer shed their antlers annually, with males usually losing them in winter and females in spring. The primary purpose of reindeer antlers is for display and combat during mating season. Males use their antlers to establish dominance and compete for mates. In addition, antlers can help reindeer forage for food by scraping away snow to access vegetation beneath, especially in harsh winter conditions.