What Are Reindeer Antlers Made Of?

Reindeer antlers are made of bone, just like human teeth or other skeletal structures. They grow from bony outgrowths on the skull called pedicles and are covered in a soft, fuzzy skin known as velvet during the growth phase. Velvet is rich in blood vessels and helps deliver nutrients to the fast-growing antlers.

Once the antlers have fully developed (typically by late summer), the velvet is shed—often in dramatic fashion—to reveal the hardened bone beneath. By autumn, the antlers are fully grown and used for social dominance and foraging during the long winter months.

What Makes Antlers Unique?

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) are the only species in the deer family where both males and females grow antlers. This is just one of the many amazing adaptations reindeer have for surviving in the Arctic.

Here are some standout facts:

• Males shed their antlers after the autumn mating season (around November–December).
• Females keep their antlers through the winter, giving them an advantage when digging through snow for food—this is especially useful during pregnancy.
• Antlers can grow up to 1 meter wide and weigh several kilograms, depending on age, diet, and health.
• Reindeer regrow their antlers every year, making them one of the fastest-growing organs in the animal kingdom!

The Seasonal Cycle of Reindeer Crowns

Understanding the seasonal antler cycle helps visitors appreciate the changes they might notice when visiting Santa Claus Reindeer in Santa Claus Village:
Season

Antler Stage

Spring
New antlers begin growing (velvet-covered)

Summer
Antlers grow rapidly, reaching full size

Autumn
Velvet is shed; antlers are fully developed

Winter
Males shed antlers after rut; females retain theirs

If you’re visiting Lapland in late autumn or early winter, you may notice that female reindeer are the ones with antlers—a surprising twist for many guests expecting to see large antlers on all reindeer!

Cultural Significance of Reindeer Horns in Lapland

In Lapland, reindeer antlers have long been treasured not only for their striking beauty but also for their practical, cultural, and symbolic significance. Naturally shed by reindeer each year, antlers are respectfully collected and have been used for centuries in traditional handicrafts, from knife handles and tools to buttons, jewelry, and home décor. Today, they continue to inspire both artisans and designers, finding their way into modern souvenirs that carry the essence of Arctic heritage.

At Santa Claus Village, visitors are often fascinated by these majestic symbols. Many love to take photos with real antlers, touch their smooth, weathered surface, or admire them hanging proudly in the warm, wooden interiors of traditional Lappish settings. More than just decorative elements, antlers represent strength, resilience, and the deep connection between the people of Lapland and the wilderness around them. They are a timeless emblem of the Arctic spirit, reminding us of nature’s rhythms and the quiet power of life above the Arctic Circle.

Meet Our Friends at Santa Claus Reindeer

At our Santa Claus Reindeer in Rovaniemi, you’ll meet reindeer of all ages—some proudly showing off their antlers, while others may be in their resting phase. Whether you’re visiting in summer when velvet antlers are still growing, or in winter when they’re fully developed, there’s always something fascinating to observe.

Our reindeer guides are happy to tell you more about:

• The differences in antlers between males and females
• How we care for reindeer during their antler growth
• Why antlers play a key role in reindeer social behavior

Don’t Forget to Capture the Moment

One of the best parts of visiting a reindeer farm in Lapland is getting up close to these majestic animals—and their magnificent antlers. Be sure to snap a photo (or several!) to remember the moment. It’s not every day you get to see real Arctic reindeer up close!

Plan Your Visit to santa claus reindeer

📍 Location: Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland
🗓 Open year-round – experiences vary with the seasons
🛷 Activities: Reindeer sleigh rides, feeding experiences, educational tours
🎟 Book your experience today and learn more about our reindeer’s lives—from their antlers to their hooves!