# Rangifer fencing

**Reindeer / Run / Reindeer**

Information about this species.

This species is an important part of the ecosystems in Västerbotten.

## FAQs

- **How does the reindeer adapt to the extreme winter conditions of fell ecology?**: Reindeer have highly insulating winter coats with hollow guard hairs. Their broad hooves act as snowshoes and help them crater through snow to access reindeer lichen (Cladonia spp.). Additionally, their tapetum lucidum (reflective layer in the eye) turns blue in winter, increasing light sensitivity during the polar night.
- **What ecological role does reindeer grazing play in the context of climate change?**: Reindeer grazing creates a 'browsing trap' that reduces the establishment of dwarf shrubs and trees in the alpine tundra. This counteracts climate-driven shrubification, maintains the high albedo (reflectivity) of the snow-covered landscape in winter, and thus mitigates local warming effects.


## Weitere Informationen

- Illustration: Rangifer fencing
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden