Reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, are Arctic and subarctic deer species adapted to some of the harshest environments on Earth. They are well known for their association with winter and Christmas folklore, but in reality, they are remarkable animals with incredible survival abilities.
Reindeer have thick fur and large, rounded hooves that help them walk on snow and dig for food. Their diet consists mainly of lichen, grasses, and mosses. Both males and females grow antlers, a rare trait among deer species, which they use for defense and competing during the mating season.
Reindeer migrate vast distances annually, traveling up to 5,000 kilometers in search of food and better conditions. They are a vital part of the ecosystems they inhabit, as well as an essential resource for indigenous Arctic communities. Climate change and industrial development are major threats to reindeer populations, making conservation efforts critical for their survival.