Reindeer: Travel

CARIBOU ! REINDEER: Travel

Of all the members of the Deer Family, Caribou shows the greatest adaptation to life in the Arctic. To carry Him over deep snow, Caribou has the widest feet of any Deer. With his Herd, Caribou migrates long distances during each season. He goes to windy plains in the summer to escape the Flies. In the winter, his Herd goes to the tundra. There, Mother Caribou gives birth with little threat from Wolves.

In Lapland and Russia, people domesticated Caribou to provide transportation, food, and clothing. First herded by people over 3000 years ago, Reindeer (domesticated Caribou) is the most northern of Domestic Animals. As beasts of burden and providers of milk, Reindeer remains a pivotal element in the culture of the Sami (Lapps of Finland).

Gregarious, Caribou joins with thousands of other Caribou to wander long distances. His Herd moves quickly to summer and winter grounds. Each time, They follow the same pathways, wearing grooves in the landscape. Using traditional routes, Caribou ford and swim great rivers.

Caribou encourages travel. He shows that being a nomad can be a good thing. Methodical in his travels, Caribou moves from favorite place to another, never overstaying his welcome.

Caribou! Reindeer’s Teachings Also Include:

“Caribou take care of their feet because they are walking people. The Creator’s message to caribou is that it is to be main source of Dene (Dogrib). Meat must be shared because Caribou is a spiritual gift that must not be used for personal gain.” Copyright: Dene Kede Education: A Dene Perspective.

Caribou ! Reindeer’s Wisdom Includes:
Being a Wandering Soul
Creating Pathway Through the Wilderness
Learning Social Skills
Going Where You Want To
Living A Traditional Life


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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008

From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:

Finding Your Animal Teachers

Animals For Everyone: Mammals

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