Rangifer tarandus

The reindeer Rangifer tarandus and some of its subspecies have names in many languages due to its importance to many cultures.

The name rein (-deer) is of Norse origin (Old Norse) hreinn, which goes back to Proto-Indo-European *kroinos meaning "horned animal".

The word deer was originally broader in meaning, but became more specific over time. In Middle English, der (Old English dēor) meant a wild animal of any kind.

This handsome fellow is temporary resident at the Castle Christmas Market and has spent a very jolly month eating hay and snuggling in his stable with his female mate bringing much joy to visitors young and old. He'll be returning to the reindeer centre for Christmas and a well earned rest!