The Svalbard reindeer is a small subspecies of Rangifer tarandus. Males are bigger than females and have larger antlers. The body mass of males is approximately 65 kg in spring and 90 kg in autumn, while female body mass is approximately 53 kg in spring and 70 kg in autumn. The approximate length of males and females are 160 cm and 150 cm, respectively.
The Svalbard reindeer is short-legged and has a relatively small, rounded head. The fur is brown on the back and light on the belly and varies between the seasons.
In winter the fur is lighter in colour than in summer, often appearing light grey or yellow-white. The thickness of the coat contributes to the short-legged appearance and makes even starved animals appear fat in the winter.
The males develop large antlers during the period from April to July and shed the velvet during August-September. Males lose their antlers in early winter. Females develop antlers starting in June and they are usually retained for a whole year.
For as long as I can remember I have always been drawn to the beauty of the environment and the wild spirit of wildlife. However, my love for nature and wildlife photography began a few years back after a series of travels coupled with my studies in design. .. Read more…