Quick answer
Reindeer are native to Asia and Europe and North America. Arctic tundra and boreal forest from Scandinavia and Russia through Alaska and Canada to Greenland; wild caribou in North America, herded reindeer in Eurasia.
Native range
Arctic tundra and boreal forest from Scandinavia and Russia through Alaska and Canada to Greenland; wild caribou in North America, herded reindeer in Eurasia.
Continents and countries
Reindeer occur across Asia and Europe and North America. Local populations depend on intact habitat, prey or food plants, and freedom from persecution.
Habitat types
Arctic tundra, boreal forest, and mountain plateaus provide shelter and feeding grounds. Seasonal movement may follow rains, prey migrations, or breeding cycles.
Range changes
Historic range may exceed current distribution. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate shifts continue to affect where reindeer persist today.
FAQs
Where do reindeer live in the wild?
Arctic tundra and boreal forest from Scandinavia and Russia through Alaska and Canada to Greenland; wild caribou in North America, herded reindeer in Eurasia.
What do reindeer eat?
They feed on herbivore — lichens, grasses, leaves, and mushrooms, varying by season and local habitat.
Are reindeer endangered?
Reindeer are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
How big is a reindeer?
Adults weigh about 120 kg and reach roughly 2 m long.