Reindeer Snapshots
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Batman the
reindeer is begging a snack
Over the seasons I have ridden reindeer sleighs, I have come to two conclusion: (1) reindeers really do not like to pull sleds, and (2) they are a lot smarter than people think.
It is said reindeer are the dumbest animals on earth. That is definitely not true.
The first winter I took a reindeer around the enclosed track. Mid-way through, at the very point where he could not be seen either from the beginning or end of the track, he stopped. He would not move.
First I gave him a tap with the reins, like I would a horse. No reaction. Then I gave him a whip like I would "Billy" my childhood pet goat who pulled me in a cart. Still nothing. Then I whipped him as I would a donkey. The reindeer merely turned and gave me a nasty look.
Finally I "let him have it". He grudgingly trudged forward ... until we approached a curve. Just before the curve he began a brisk, beautiful reindeer gait. Around the curve we were in sight of his owner and trainer!
Batman, the white reindeer (above), has a very distinctive, people oriented personality. He is like a big puppy, always close at hand. On the other hand, Nasta (pictured below) is Santa's favorite reindeer. He accompanies Santa on his appearances in the Levi area. Not only does Nasta have a beautiful pair of antlers, he also has a very gentle personality around people.
Everyone visiting Lapland should try a reindeer sled ride. It is fun and besides, it is a story to make friends in more temperate climes stand in awe. But to really experience a reindeer ride requires a long journey into the forests...on the next page
For more information on reindeer, check out the "Reindeer Hubandry" section of the Finnish Reindeer Herder's Association.
More reindeer snapshots
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Nasta is one of Santa's favorite reindeer, often appearing with him around Levi.
