As the name suggests, reindeer are a species of deer.
They are the only deer species in which both the male and female can grow antlers. In fact, males’ antlers can grow up to a whopping 1.4 metres in length and have as many 44 points, called ‘tines‘.
Reindeer spend up to 40% of their lives in snow, and have developed special adaptations to help them survive these conditions. Their cloven hooves (divided into two) spread their weight, helping them stand on snow and soft ground. Their hollow fur helps to trap heat, and they have lots of tiny veins circulate warm blood around their nose, heating up the air they breathe in so they don’t get cold!
