Between the Ears?

[Zbone]

I know it depends upon geographical region and individual animal but what do some of you serious whitetail hunters reference for measuring the distance tip to tip between the ears of an alerted MATURE MIDWESTERN whitetail buck while looking at you. By mature, I mean 3 years or older. Have heard anywhere from 18" – 15", but just curious what some of you guys think.

Thanx

BTW, it's actually kinda hard to measure once they're dead.

[nick_the_tinkerer]

usually around here 16" or so

[bowmaster12]

fully alert will by on average 15-16"

[MnFn]

I just measured a buck I have have mounted in my den. It would be considered a magnum cape, at least that is what the taxidermist called it. It measures 17 1/2" from tip to tip. It is a 5X6 whitetail taken in northern Minnesota. Outside spread of rack is 16".

[bornagainbowhunter]

Usually when alerted the ears go up and slightly together. I would say around 14"-15".  Just relaxed feeding, about 16".

[JimB]

I also use the rule of thumb of 16".I'm sure it varies.

Mule deer are about 20"

[bogeyrider63]

15 to 16 sound's pretty close.

[Buckeye Trad Hunter]

I would say between 15-18 as stated.  Inside spread of my buck is 17 and the ears are perfectly even with it.  He's a 140 class 10 pt. aged at 3 years by the game biologist at the check-in.

[Zbone]

Thanx for the input.