Modification of antler growth in red deer stags by use of
synthetic progestagen
P.D. Muir, G.K. Barrell, A.R. Sykes
Lincoln College, Canterbury
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production.
1982, 42: 145-148
Separate trials were conducted to investigate the effects of a
synthetic progestagen - medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) - on red deer
stags at 2 different stages of the antler growth cycle. MPA treatment
of 2 stags from the time of harvest of 'A-grade' velvet stimulated the
growth of additional sets of antlers in each case. This treatment also
reduced blood testosterone levels and prevented the seasonal increase in
testicular size. Alternatively, MPA treatment applied to 6 stages
during their hard antler phase (winter) caused premature casting of the
antler buttons in all animals. These findings indicate a possible role
of MPA or similar compounds for the artificial manipulation of antler
growth under farming conditions.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
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