New research suggests female reindeer antlers serve as postpartum snacks, with new moms munching on them after giving birth to get a much-needed boost of protein, calcium and phosphorus

Female caribou grow antlers, which they shed just a few days before giving birth.

Michael Miller

Why do female reindeer have antlers? It’s a question that has long perplexed scientists, since reindeer ( Rangifer tarandus )—also known as caribou —are the only species of deer whose cows sport the bony skull protrusions.

Now, researchers have discovered one possible explanation: Antlers may serve as an important nutritional supplement for females that have recently given birth, according to a new study published February 24 in the journal Ecology and Evolution .

Scientists came up with this theory after finding numerous caribou bite marks on shed caribou antlers in the Arctic.…