By Laura Anderson
“Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!”
After “A Visit from St Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore was published in 1823, reindeers became famous for their work as Santa’s sleigh pullers. But how much do you know about Santa’s little helpers?
Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus), also known as caribou, are a species of large deer. They are native to the Northern Hemisphere, where they are found across Asia, Europe and North America. The social animals travel in herds of 10 to a couple hundred animals. During calving season, they can form “super-herds” which can consist of up to 500,000 animals!
As the largest herbivore in the arctic, reindeer play an important role in the tundra’s ecosystem. Their constant grazing is necessary for healthy vegetation, preventing larger shrubs and trees from taking over the tundra landscape and turning the land into a woodland.
The tundra isn’t the only one relying on reindeer - people do too! For a millennia, caribou have pulled heavy loads and been farmed for their milk, meat and hides. Even their antlers, which they shed every year, have been put to use! As the only domesticated deer, these animals have provided shelter, food and transport for many people in the North.
Unfortunately, our wild reindeer face many threats. From climate change to deforestation, these deer are losing their homes, and are listed as vulnerable. You can learn more about the dangers our reindeer face on the WWF website.
As a symbol of a safe journey, it is no wonder that the reindeer became Santa’s sleigh pullers!
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