Reindeer
Scientific name: Rangifer tarandus
Reindeer (also known as Caribou in North America) have a fur coat that consists of an outer layer of straight, hollow, tubular hairs which provide insulation from the cold and a woolly undercoat. The coat colour is generally brown to grey on the upperparts and pale to white on the underparts, although the colour can vary from almost black to white depending on location.
The reindeer has long, sweeping antlers that re-grow each year. They are the only deer species where both the male and female possess antlers, although the female antlers are much smaller and simpler. Overall, the females tend to be smaller and more slender in comparison to the males.
A number of vocalisations are produced by the reindeer. Adults snort when alarmed and males roar during the breeding season.
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At Noah's Ark...
We have 3 Reindeer... Ceaser, Remi and Rhianna.
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Size Fact
A male’s antlers can reach up to 130 cm.
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Food Fact
The reindeer eats a wide variety of plants and typically selects food that is the most nutritious and easily digestible. As the reindeer is a ruminant, it has a compartmentalised stomach and relies on micro-organisms and re-chewing to digest food.
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Fun Fact
A reindeer's feet make a clicking noise when they walk. This is due to a tendon slipping over the bone and it enables them to stay together in thick fog.
Adopt Me
You can support our conservation efforts and help with the costs of keeping rare and wonderful zoo animals by adopting a Reindeer. Adopt a Reindeer for yourself or as a gift.
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