Reindeer
Although they are called by different names, wild caribou and domestic reindeer are considered to be a single species throughout the world.
Reindeer are large members of the deer family. Alaskan caribou are dark brown with a white neck and rump. Chukotkan reindeer, because they are domesticated and herded, can all have coats of different colors and combinations. Brown, gray, black, and white deer can all be seen in one herd.
Natural threats to reindeer include avalanches and predators, such as wolves, wolverines, lynx, and bear. Even large birds can sometimes kill a caribou calf. Parasites and disease are other natural threats.
Wild caribou are still hunted in North America for survival. In the traditional lifestyle of the Inuit, Northern First Nations people, and Alaska Natives, caribou is a source of food, clothing, shelter and tools.
Links to Learn More
Find out why Santa picked reindeer for his team. Learn more >>.Why are caribou said to "come like ghosts, fill up the land, and vanish"? Learn more >>.
Did you know that reindeer are born to run in 90 minutes? Learn more Learn more >>.
What's so special about caribou feet? Find out Learn more >>.
Source: courtesy of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reindeer,
http://www.nps.gov/archive/bela/html/rangifer.htm
Image: courtsey of http://www3.aa.tufs.ac.jp/~tugusk/chukchi/chukchi_dtop_e.htm
