Reindeer herding is central to the culture and livelihood of indigenous communities across the Arctic, with distinctive welfare challenges tied to traditional and modern practices.
Traditional reindeer herding maintained large natural ranges and minimal handling stress. Modern intensification using helicopters and snowmobiles for mustering causes acute fear responses and can result in miscarriages and death from stress. Climate change creates icing events that lock grazing under ice, causing starvation. The welfare of reindeer must be considered alongside the cultural and economic rights of herding communities. Collaboration with indigenous knowledge systems is essential for welfare-sensitive management.