Postcornua is a term derived from Latin, which refers to the bony structures located at the posterior ends of the frontal bones in the skulls of certain animals, particularly in deer species. These bony projections, also known as "supraorbital processes" or "supraorbital horns," emerge from the frontal bone just above the eyes, curving backward and upward towards the skull's back.
This prominent feature is typically observed in male deer, serving as a significant characteristic that differentiates them from their female counterparts. The postcornua play a crucial role during the development and growth of antlers in these animals. Antlers, composed of bone, grow and are nourished by a soft tissue called velvet, which generates nutrients for their rapid growth. Once the antlers become fully developed, the velvet is shed, the antlers harden, and the postcornua provide essential support and stability to the prominent structures.
These distinctive bony projections serve both aesthetical and functional purposes. In addition to embellishing the overall appearance of male deer and enhancing their physical attractiveness during mating seasons, postcornua aid in territorial behaviors and asserting dominance. Male deer employ their antlers and postcornua for sparring matches against other males, determining hierarchy, defending their territory, and attracting potential mates.
The term postcornua is predominantly used in the context of zoology, anatomy, and wildlife studies, contributing to a more precise description and understanding of the intricate cranial structures found in deer species.
