Cairngorm Herd on Mountain side above Loch Morlich
Reindeer were re-introduced to Scotland in 1952 by Mikel Utsi and his wife Dr Ethel Lindgren. The first reindeer came from his Swedish Mountain Reindeer Herd. Although owned and managed by the Reindeer Company the Reindeer are allowed to roam freely on the mountains living a mainly natural lifestyle. The herd is around 150 strong now and most live on The Cairngorm Mountains above Loch Morlich while the remainder live on the Glenlivet Estate.
The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre near Aviemore has a small museum which has information on all aspects of this herd and general information on reindeers. They also organise hill trips to see the reindeer. During the walk a guide tells you all about reindeer but the highlight of the walk is when you get the opportunity to hand feed them which is a wonderful experience.
For more information see their website: http://www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk
