Reindeer are a species of deer found across Arctic and subarctic regions. These hardy herbivores have highly adapted digestive systems suited to the sparse tundra environment. Reindeer can safely consume apples, but the fruit is not a natural part of their foraging range. Apples should be viewed strictly as a managed, occasional snack.
Apples as a Supplementary Treat
Apples offer a quick source of carbohydrates and moisture, but their high sugar content requires strict moderation. A large influx of sugar can disrupt the delicate balance of microbes in their specialized stomach, the rumen. Apples should constitute less than five percent of their daily food intake to maintain a stable digestive environment.
When offering apples, preparation is necessary to ensure safety. The fruit should be cut into bite-sized chunks to mitigate the risk of choking. It is also important to remove the core and seeds, as apple seeds contain amygdalin, which converts into cyanide compounds. Plain, raw apple slices are the safest option, and all coatings or candied preparations should be avoided.
The Primary Natural Diet
In the wild, the reindeer’s diet shifts dramatically between seasons to utilize available forage. During the brief summer months, when vegetation is abundant, they graze on a variety of plants. Their summer intake consists largely of grasses, sedges, herbs, and the leaves and shoots of shrubs like willow and birch.
The winter diet is fundamentally different, relying heavily on lichens, commonly known as “reindeer moss.” Reindeer use their hooves to dig through the snow, a behavior called cratering, to access this carbohydrate-rich food source. Specialized microbes in their unique digestive system allow them to break down the specific carbohydrates found in lichens for energy. This high-carbohydrate diet is crucial for their survival during the long, cold winter period.
Diet Management in Captive Settings
For reindeer in managed herds, human intervention provides consistent and balanced nutrition outside of their natural foraging cycle. The foundation of a captive diet is high-quality, fine-stemmed hay, such as timothy or alfalfa. This provides the necessary long-fiber roughage for proper rumen function and gut health.
Specialized commercial pellets, or rations, are used to ensure they receive adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals lacking in hay or natural forage. These pellets are often formulated with grains like barley and oats, providing concentrated nutrition, particularly for pregnant females or during winter. Keepers also provide mineral blocks or loose supplements to guarantee intake of trace elements like selenium, which supports overall health and immunity.