Smarts

Reindeer Facts or "Smarts"

Reindeer are members of the species rangifer tarandus and are part of the cervidae (deer) family. Interesting fact is that they are the only animals of the deer family where both males and females grow antlers.

Reindeer are very well adapted to cold winter weather with their hollow unique hair that traps air and provides them with excellent insulation. Their fairly large, concave shaped feet help them travel on snow and soft ground and also let them paw through the snow for food. Reindeer shed their winter coat between June and August, replacing it with a sleek, dark brown summer coat.

Adult reindeer bulls are about 48 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh from 250 to 350 pounds. Adult cows are slightly shorter and weigh from 170 – 220 pounds. Reindeer are seasonal breeders. The breeding season begins in September and lasts through October. The gestation period is approximately 7 months, after which the cow gives birth to usually a single calf, generally born in the morning.

Farmed reindeer feed on different grasses (including hay in winter), moss, leaves and lichens and their diet can be supplemented with commercial feed.