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Sterling
Birthday: April 2024
Energetic, Watchful, Extroverted
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Atlas
Birthday: May 2023
Curious, Captivating, Gentle
MEET THE REINDEER
Did you know that caribou and reindeer, though often mistaken for one another, have very different roots? Caribou are native to North America, while reindeer originated in northern Europe and Asia, migrating across regions like Sweden, Siberia, Norway, and Finland. To understand how these iconic animals made their way to North America, we need to look back in history.
In the late 1800s, Native Alaskan communities were struggling as whaling ships and outside hunters depleted their natural resources. In response, a federal program was launched in 1890 to introduce reindeer from Siberia to Alaska, providing these communities with resources for food, clothing, transportation, and employment as herdsmen. Today’s North American reindeer are descendants of these Siberian imports, and the reindeer at Northern Lights Ranch continue that legacy.
Our first reindeer, born in May 2023, is now a striking year and a half old. With soulful eyes and a calm curiosity, he carries himself with pride as he roams alongside Mabel, his mini pony companion. His gentle nature and enduring loyalty have made him a treasured part of our growing ranch family.
In contrast, our younger calf is a joyful bundle of energy and wonder, prancing through fields with his fuzzy nose high in the air. Always alert and attentive, he’s often the first to greet visitors with boundless curiosity. Watching him grow and develop his own unique personality has been one of our greatest joys.
Northern Lights Ranch brings the magic of reindeer directly to your event! From holiday parties to community festivals, our traveling reindeer create unforgettable, joyful experiences for all ages. We deliver wonder and smiles anywhere in North Dakota.
Welcome to Northern Lights Ranch
MEET ART & SABRINA
Our Story: Bringing Enchantment to the Heart of North Dakota
As lifelong Bismarck residents, Art and I have deep roots in North Dakota. Art’s childhood on family ranches gave him an appreciation for rural life, while I embarked on my journey with no prior farm experience. After completing his Master’s degree, Art’s desire to serve in a rural community led us to Garrison in 2017, where he accepted a position at the local hospital. Here, we found the perfect place to call home, with open spaces, a welcoming community, and exceptional recreational opportunities.
Settling into a small piece of land, we began our journey into animal husbandry with a few fluffy chicks, quickly expanding to peafowl, alpacas, and other animals. Each addition brought new projects and more feed, and we’ve enjoyed every moment of connecting with the unique personalities of our animals. There’s something profoundly rewarding in learning the art of animal care and experiencing the tranquility they bring.
Garrison, known as North Dakota’s Christmas Capital, naturally drew us to the most majestic holiday icon—reindeer. With their gentle nature and enchanting presence, reindeer embody the spirit of Christmas in a way that captivates everyone. After years of planning, researching, and preparing, Art and I are thrilled to share this joy with our community and beyond.
From our family to yours, we welcome you to Northern Lights Ranch, where every visit is a chance to create magical memories and connect with these extraordinary animals. We invite you to join us and experience the simple, timeless joy our animal encounters bring.