Can I Collect a Deer Head With Attached Antlers From a Carcass?

March 4, 2010

Question: While fishing for steelhead on Carmel River, I came across a 4-point buck that had been dead for at least three months. Given that it was in deep brush, I am guessing a mountain lion had gotten him. Is it legal to take the head with perfect rack and give it to someone as a gift? Not to be sold or re-sold, but as a gift. (Blake, Monterey)

Answer: No, this would not be legal. If the antlers were sheds (naturally detached from the skull), then there would be no problem. However, for any other deer parts, even if this deer was found dead due to predators or natural causes, it is not legal to possess any portions of that animal. Deer may only be possessed if taken by a licensed hunter with a rifle, shotgun, pistol, revolver, muzzleloader or with archery equipment. Otherwise, especially with a deer carcass picked up out of season, It would be impossible for a game warden to know whether this was a deer that had been found dead of natural causes or had been illegally poached.