Less than a week after calling on the town of Dillon to ban the use of live animals at public events, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture Monday to deny Santa’s reindeer license renewal. Santa Claus in this case refers to Bill Lee, owner of Laughing Valley Ranch in Idaho Springs, who is well known for his portrayal of Santa during the holidays. Lee often brings at least one of his six reindeer with him during public appearances. His Animal Welfare Act reindeer exhibitor license is set to expire

However, normal reindeer have very interesting hooves that change according to the season. In the winter, the pads of their paws are smaller, leaving more room for the hoof to cut through the snow. This allows them to run without slipping and to dig for roots, as reindeer are herbivorous animals that mostly feed on moss, grasses and some leaves, although they may get fish and rodents every now and then. In the summer, their hooves are softer so that they can walk better on the exposed ground.

Elf’s Farm Yard is situated at the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi Lapland Finland. Here, you can meet with reindeer, feed them, as well as see some other animals such as goats, sheep, bunnies and more.