A brow tine is a distinctive feature found on the antlers of some male elk. It refers to a point that extends forward from the main beam of the antler, typically originating near the base. The presence and size of the brow tine can vary between individual elk and is an important identifying characteristic. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what brow tines are, their purpose, and why they matter.
Anatomy of Elk Antlers
Male elk grow a new set of antlers each year. The antlers are made of bone and are covered in velvet while growing. In the fall, when growth is complete, the velvet is shed to reveal the hardened antlers.
Elk antlers have a main beam that extends up from the skull. Points called tines sprout from the main beam. The configuration and number of tines is unique to each elk.
Brow tines originate near the base of the main beam, closest to the elk’s head and brow. They are one of the first tines to form in the antler growth cycle. Mature bull elk typically have prominent brow tines that jut forward and up.
![Brow Tine Elk][]
Purpose of Brow Tines
The antlers of male elk play several important roles. Most notably, they are used in mating displays to establish dominance and attract females. Larger more impressive racks indicate a healthier more virile bull.
Brow tines add visual prominence to an elk’s rack Their distinctive forward-jutting shape catches the eye Longer brow tines may help attract more cows during the autumn rut,
The antlers are also used as weapons against rival males when sparring. Brow tines provide an extra point for pushing and leverage when locks occur. Their positioning near the base of the antler adds force and strength.
Variations in Brow Tines
Not all elk have prominent brow tines. Some bulls may have no brow tine at all, while others have one or two. Brow tines can vary greatly in length and thickness between individual elk.
Genetics play a major role in antler growth, including brow tine development. The health and age of the bull also affects antler configuration. Prime, mature bulls tend to have the largest racks and brow tines.
Nutrition is another important factor. Bulls with access to high-quality food sources tend to grow bigger racks with well-developed tines. Areas with harsh winters may produce elk with smaller antlers.
Regional Differences
Some distinct subspecies and regional populations of elk are recognized for their prominent brow tines. These include:
- Roosevelt elk – A subspecies found in the Pacific Northwest of North America. Bulls have thick, heavy antlers with long brow tines.
- Tule elk – A subspecies in California. Large and prominent brow tines sweep forward and up.
- Rocky Mountain elk – Populations in Alberta, Canada tend to have robust antlers with long, curved brow tines.
- Manitoban elk – Found in Manitoba, Canada. Bulls have thick, massive antlers with unique extra-long brow tines.
Importance for Hunting
Brow tines play an important role in elk hunting. When targeting mature trophy bulls, hunters look for elk with large, developed antlers and prominent brow tines.
Some jurisdictions use brow tines in their elk hunting regulations and classifications. For example:
- British Columbia classifies elk with brow tines longer than four inches as “trophy” animals.
- Montana uses brow tines as a criterion for “brow-tined bull” elk – antlers must have at least one brow tine over four inches long.
- Idaho requires brow tines on at least one antler to hunt certain controlled elk zones.
By selectively targeting elk with well-formed brow tines, hunters help maintain the quality and vigor of the herd’s antler development.
Identifying and Appreciating Brow Tines
The next time you see a male elk, take a moment to admire its rack and note the brow tines. Look for length, thickness, and curvature. Brow tines are a distinguishing feature that adds to the majestic appearance of a bull elk.
Learning to identify quality brow tines takes patience and practice. But understanding the variations and regional differences can increase your appreciation of these magnificent animals.
So now you know exactly what a brow tine is and why it matters. The distinctive forward-projecting tines add prominence and allure to a bull elk’s antlers, making them prized trophies for hunters and spectators alike.
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Bull elk with double brow tines
FAQ
What is considered a brow tine?
What are the names of elk tines?
What are brow tines on a deer?
What do you call a 6 point elk?
What is a brow tine?
BURR — The burr is the bony rim around the bottom of the antlers. BROW TINE — The brow tine is the first division of the antlers. BAY TINE — The bay tine is the second split, just above the brow tine. TRAY TINE — The tray tine is the third tine. SURROYAL TINE — The surroyal tine is the fourth tine that branches off the beam.
How far do elk brows go?
On a big American elk, the distance from the burr of the antler to the tip of the nose is about 15-4/8 inches. Let’s start at the bottom of the antlers and work up. A curved brow tine that appears to reach the end of the nose will be about 18 inches long.
What is the difference between a beam and a brow tine?
BEAM — The beam is the central stalk of the antler. PEDICLE — The pedicle is the permanent base for antlers, where they attach to the skull. BURR — The burr is the bony rim around the bottom of the antlers. BROW TINE — The brow tine is the first division of the antlers. BAY TINE — The bay tine is the second split, just above the brow tine.
Are brow tines a good bull?
Brow tines will often appear prehistorically big. This is the sort of bull that every hunter dreams of, and that tycoons pay hundreds of thousands to hunt. Not a high-scoring trophy by classic standards, but a very nice bull and a great bull for the New Mexico region.