Reindeer are mammals from the deer family, which also includes moose and elk. These animals are known for their antlers, which are large bony growths on their heads. Interestingly, reindeer are the only deer species where females also have antlers.
Reindeer belong to the order Artiodactyla and the family Cervidae, which includes deer.
Let’s explore more about these fascinating creatures from TekeTrek.
Where do reindeer live?
Reindeer are found in the Arctic tundra and adjacent boreal forests of Greenland, Scandinavia, Russia, Alaska, and Canada. There are two main varieties of reindeer:
- Tundra Reindeer: These reindeer migrate between tundra and forest in huge herds, numbering up to half a million. They cover an annual cycle of up to 5,000 km (3,000 miles).
- Forest Reindeer: Forest reindeer are much less numerous than tundra reindeer.
Physical Characteristics of Reindeer
- Large male Reindeer size can stand more than 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) tall at the shoulder and weigh over 250 kg (550 pounds) Females are slightly smaller.
- Reindeer have deeply cloven hooves, allowing their feet to spread on snow or soft ground. They are also good swimmers.
- Their coat color varies from whitish in winter to brown in summer
- Both males and females have antlers, with males’ antlers growing up to 1.4 meters long. Reindeer are unique among deer species because females also have antlers.
Reindeer diet
Reindeer are herbivores, primarily eating plants. Their diet includes grasses, sedges, algae, buds, mushrooms, and leaves. During winter, they dig through the snow to find energy-rich lichens called reindeer moss.
Behavior and Lifestyle
- Reindeer are highly social creatures, traveling, feeding, and resting in groups called herds. These herds can range from 10 to several hundred individuals.
- In spring, herd sizes can increase from 50,000 to 500,000 members as they migrate southward to find food for the winter.
- Reindeer live in family groups of 6 to 13 individuals in the Eurasian and American forests.
- They exhibit territorial behavior during the breeding season, with males competing for females.
- Calves are born in May or June after a gestation of **seven and a half months**. then then grow rapidly the result of their mother’s rich milk.
- Reindeer can live up to 15 to 18 years in the wild.
The most frequently asked questions about reindeer
- Are reindeer predators?
Reindeer are peaceful animals and feed solely on vegetation.
- What distinguishes reindeer?
Reindeer are known for their impressive **long antlers**.
- What is the difference between deer and reindeer?
Domestic reindeer are shorter and heavier than their wild counterparts and are the largest among deer. It has two layers of fat that help it survive the extreme cold in winter.
- What does the reindeer symbolize?
It also represents a manifestation of joy in New Year celebrations and has become a symbol of optimism.
- Why is a reindeer’s nose red?
Blood vessels collect in the reindeer’s nose to supply it with blood in low temperatures
- What is the importance of reindeer to humans?
Reindeer are closely related to humans, and they also helped transport people by pulling sleds on the snow.
- Is a reindeer a deer?
reindeer is member of the deer family.
- What is a female reindeer called?
Female reindeer called cow.
- How many reindeer exist?
There are about 3.5 million in North America and 1 million in Eurasia.
In conclusion, reindeer are gentle and fascinating creatures. They have been domesticated in some regions and continue to play an essential role in the lives of Arctic people. Whether pulling Santa’s sleigh or providing food and materials, reindeer hold a special place in our cultural imagination.
