Annual antler growth cycle. In spring, hard antlers drop off from the pedicles (arrow), and antler regeneration immediately follows. Rapid antler growth occurs in summer. Growing antlers are enveloped with velvet skin (asterisk). In autumn, antlers become fully calcified and velvet skin starts to shed. In winter, hard antlers are attached to their pedicles and subsequently cast in the next spring, which triggers a new round of antler regeneration.

Applications are now open for the next HCAP event in the 2025 Series, with Training Workshop & MCQ on Saturday 3rd May 2025 (Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow) and Range Test on Saturday 10th May 2025 (Midland Range, Blue Ball, Tullamore).

Candidates who were No-Shows or Deferrals at the last Workshop & MCQ on 1st March 2025 are automatically carried forward to the event on 3rd May 2025.

A full list of eligible candidates will be posted here in due course.

Application can be made online through the Online Applications section of the Deer Alliance website (cost €165.00). The Deer Alliance Stalker Manual can also be ordered online through the same section (cost €35.00 inc. p. & p.). Payment is through PayPal, using any valid credit card or debit card, applicants do not need their own PayPal account.

Members of IFA Countryside will benefit from a subsidised fee (€130.00), information on the application process and booking through Eventbrite will be circulated directly to their members by IFA Countryside.

Full details of the event on 3rd May 2025 will be posted here shortly, including the list of eligible candidates.