Also, they decrease their activity in winter to conserve reserves. Reindeer prefer snow over water in winter. The lack of minerals in snow and small amount in lichen minimize the requirement for water. Also, there is a lower loss of body heat to melt snow than to search for and warm copious amounts of water. Winter conditions may still exist when calves are born.
Reindeer milk is extremely high in protein and fat.
Many organs of reindeer are relatively larger than many domestic animals for increased growth rate. These two factors facilitate survival, especially for free-ranging reindeer. Adults, particularly cows, are nutritionaly stressed during springtime. They are known to eat rodents, eggs, placenta and chew on antler to attain limited nutrients. Contact us for other diets and information.