According to the Wyoming Game And Fish Department antler shed collections are closely monitored statewide.

There are rules, and most of them have to do with trespassing. Trespassing is a problem due to how much antlers are worth in the marketplace.

"Shed antler hunting is still restricted in many areas of Wyoming, and Wyoming Game and Fish Department is actively enforcing trespassing rules. Wyoming’s shed antler law prohibits the collection of shed antlers and horns from January 1 through April 30 on public lands west of the Continental Divide, excluding the Great Divide Basin, and up to May 15 on some habitat management areas."

The states Game and Fish Commission defines a, “collection” as: "to search for, locate, stockpile, or possess shed antlers and horns of big game animals on public land or attempt to search for, locate, stockpile, or possess shed antlers and horns of big game animals on public land. The purpose of the seasonal closure is to minimize harassment or disturbance of big game animals on their winter and spring ranges when animals are most vulnerable to stress and displacement to less productive habitats. Colorado and Utah have similar regulations."

Now that we know the rules, you might have noticed some rather sizable collections in the state.

Jackson Wyoming must top the list. Those famous arches that lead into their parks and town square say it all.

Hulett Wyoming has a rather stunning display over their Fine Arts & Antiques entrance.

Afton Wyoming has a rather impressive display across the street for those who drive into their downtown.

But the most impressive display might have been at Jackson Elk Antlers Galore, Records Set at Boy Scout Antler Auction

Racks and racks of elk shed antlers almost as far as the eye could see. And all laid out for sale on May 17, 2014, at the 47th Annual Boy Scout Antler Auction at the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The 2014 antler harvest and sale set records with 13,698 pounds of antlers representing the largest number of antlers ever sold.

Here is a rather impressive collection from a gentleman up in Montana.

 

More From Laramie Live