Reindeer

arctic animals · extreme survival · hoofed mammals

Only cold-built deer. Reindeer are the sole type of deer that thrives in Arctic and subarctic regions across the Northern Hemisphere. Their thick fur, broad hooves, and stocky build let them survive where almost no other deer could possibly live.

Around the world alike. Reindeer have a circumpolar distribution, meaning they live in a band around the North Pole through northern Europe, Siberia, and North America. Scientists recognize 7 subspecies of reindeer, each adapted to their local frozen home.

Same species, different names. Reindeer in Europe and Asia and caribou in North America are actually the same species, just called by different names. More recent research suggests that caribou and reindeer might split into separate species, but right now they're considered one kind of deer.

High and low homes. Reindeer live in tundra (treeless plains), boreal forests (northern evergreen forests), mountainous areas, and other chilly habitats. They're the only deer equally at home on frozen plains and in steep, snowy mountains.