Why do female reindeer have antlers? It’s a question that has long perplexed scientists, since reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)—also known as caribou—are the only species of deer whose cows sport the bony ... Reindeer and caribou are the only deer species on Earth in which females grow antlers.

Understanding the Context

Instead of using antlers for combat, female caribou use them as a portable mineral storage system. Female caribou ... Reindeer (also known as caribou) are a member of the deer family, native to the tundra, boreal forests, and mountains of the extreme frigid north. In human culture, they are a staple of northern ...

Key Insights

Reindeer with reflective antlers (photograph by Anne Ollila, via Yle) Would this spooky reindeer that seems to have transported from some unearthly netherworld stop you in your tracks? That’s the hope ... Autoblog: Finnish spraying reindeer antlers with glow-in-the-dark paint to curb accidents [w/video] It's always easy to tell bucks from does in many of the deer species, because bucks (male deer) have antlers and does (female deer) don't. But what about reindeer? They're part of the deer species, so ...

Final Thoughts

Smithsonian Magazine: Caribou Are the Only Deer Species in Which Females Grow Antlers. Scientists Just Figured Out Why Caribou Are the Only Deer Species in Which Females Grow Antlers. Scientists Just Figured Out Why