This is just a cool barn we saw on the way. It has nothing to do with reindeer.
Hardy's Reindeer Ranch.
They bought their first two reindeer in the 90s to promote their Christmas tree farm (yes, we'll be going back in a few months) and fell in love with the beasts. After that they imported a dozen more (all from Alaska).
The owner's daughter gave us a tour. She said to listen closely. When the reindeer step, their ankles make a clicking sound, like joints popping. She said the sound helps herds stay together in blizzards. The reindeer listen for the clicking sound and use it to locate the other members of their herd. Also, it's the origin of line in the song, "up on the housetop, click, click, click."
The beasts don't have it so easy in the Illinois climate. The summers can get a little too toasty for their comfort and they can be susceptible to West Nile Virus.
They've had two new additions to the herd in the past few months, both born to a female 16 years old. Since reindeer only live for 16-17 years, it's unusual for one so old to give birth.
She said both of the males are in rut, so they've been given hormone shots to mellow them out.
As a special treat, I got what she called a "reindeer kiss." Basically, I fed one of the beasts from my own mouth. It was a terrifying experience.
We recorded some video footage of the monsters during their ravenous feeding frenzy.
And here's your parting shot: the ranch dog, Huckleberry.
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