In some species of cervids (deer-like species), both males and females grow antlers. This is fairly unusual: normally, the males are the only ones with antlers, as they can use them to defend their territory and fight for mates. However, female caribou grow antlers in order to gather enough food during the harsh winter months as well as protect themselves.
Caribou normally feed on lichens and grasses, which are buried when the snow falls. In order to get to their food, they effectively use their antlers as giant shovels, moving away the snow and allowing them to feed.
The females with antlers also have a protective advantage. In their environment, which is difficult to hide in because of their size and color, the antlered females can better defend themselves if they have antlers. The presence of the antlers may also dissuade smaller predators from trying to bring them down.
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