About the Reindeer

Reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, are large deer native to Arctic and Subarctic regions. These hardy animals are well-adapted to cold climates with their thick fur coats and wide, flat hooves that help them walk on snow and dig for food. Unlike most deer species, both male and female reindeer grow antlers. Reindeer are known for their long migrations, with some herds traveling up to 3,000 miles annually. They have a unique diet that includes lichens, which they can digest thanks to specialized bacteria in their gut. Reindeer have been domesticated in some regions and play an important role in many northern cultures for their meat, milk, and as draft animals.