Reindeer is one of the mammals visitors can discover in Muddy Duck Farm at Flamingo Land. Its natural range is associated with Canada, Finland, Greenland, Mongolia, Norway, Russian Federation, United States. Its scientific name is Rangifer tarandus.
Diet
Reindeer graze grasses and herbs in summer and rely heavily on lichens and other hardy plants during winter.
Habitat and range
They are adapted to Arctic tundra and northern boreal forest across Eurasia and North America.
Behaviour and adaptations
Many populations migrate over long distances. Broad hooves support travel over snow and soft ground and help uncover food.
Conservation
The conservation status recorded for this entry is Vulnerable. Climate change, infrastructure, disturbance and changes to grazing habitat affect wild and semi-domestic herds. Conservation classifications can change when new assessments are published.
What to look for
Notice the broad hooves, insulating coat and antlers, which can be grown by both sexes. Individual animals can choose when to rest, feed or move out of view, so sightings vary through the day. Check the daily programme for keeper talks and current information about the animals in the collection.