Each year, male white-tailed deer shed their antlers, which you can find as you walk in the countryside. The Upton Open Space Committee and Friends of Upton State Forest are co-hosting a Shed Hunt at the Former Stefans Farm in Upton. Hikers/antler seekers will divide into small groups that will go for an off-trail treasure hunt looking for deer antlers.
There is rough footing in places and it can be wet, so wear appropriate shoes. Protective clothing and eyewear are also recommended (brambles, branches and shrubs can hurt).
This program is open to all ages and skill levels. Children are welcome with supervision. A liability waiver is required and a parent must sign for anyone under 18.
The hunt was originally scheduled for Sunday, February 23, 2014 but because of the weather and snow on the ground the hunt has been rescheduled for March 30 from 9 AM – 12 Noon
Meet in the parking area at the Community Garden on Mechanic Street, Upton (near the power lines). As a courtesy to hikers who may be fearful or allergic, please leave pets at home. There is no charge. Inclement weather, deep snow, or recent snowfall cancels.
For questions, updates or cancellation notice: uptonopenspaceevents@charter.net
message from UPton Open Space at 5 p.m. on Friday…. This Sunday’s shed hunt at Stefans farm is on. Bring rain gear including boots-it gets muddy. Don’t bother with umbrellas, they will not do well off trail in the woods unless you plan to use them as walking sticks. Actual walking sticks are encouraged – they will help you in the search for antlers.
UPTON DAILY 
Just curious what you do with the found antlers? Probably better to find, observe, learn and then leave them behind. Most natural objects serve a purpose in the ecosystem…I believe antlers (like bones) provide a precious source of calcium and other minerals that small mammals need to survive…little guys like chipmunks, voles, field mice, squirrels, etc…and those, in turn, will feed our larger mammals, reptiles and birds of prey.