Kingdom of the reindeer

Few things make a greater impression than encountering a herd of reindeer majestically moving along a mountain ridge – and the chances of seeing reindeer in Trollheimen are pretty good. Domesticated reindeer husbandry has a long history in these mountainous areas and is the very cornerstone of the South Sámi culture.

For the Sámi people, reindeer are the most important resource, and reindeer husbandry is the basis of their existence, ensuring the continuation of Sámi culture, techniques and craftsmanship. Although reindeer husbandry is based on ancient traditions, it is an industry that is constantly evolving.

Sijte is the South Sámi term for a group of reindeer owners/families who join together to herd reindeer in the same areas. Trollheimen Sijte is located in Nerskogen, and has a total winter herd of approximately 1600 animals in Trollheimen.

The reindeer live in an environment characterized by major variations in food availability, weather conditions and different seasons – factors to which they are well adapted. The characteristics the reindeer have developed over thousands of years enable them to maximize nutrient intake in the summer and conserve scarce resources during the harsh winter months