How Reindeer Herders Cope with Harsh Winter Conditions in Northern Finland: Insights from an Interview Study

Reindeer herding involves hard physical work carried out in a cold climate under variable weather conditions. In the fall and winter, herders’ northern Finland includes collecting moving reindeer herds to round-up sites, working round-ups, slaughtering processing meat as well daily feeding monitoring of animals field. To study experiences perceptions coping with among physically active herders harsh winter conditions, we interviewed 22 from six districts central management area within north boreal coniferous forest zone. We focused on behavioral cultural strategies that accompany physiological adaptations. Semi-structured interviews revealed main used by successfully carry their duties while avoiding cold-related injury include clothing, activity, nutrition, shelter protecting vehicles devices. Herders across sex, age, district reported using modern layered clothing developed for extreme often combined traditional footwear clothes made fur or woollen fabric. addition, increase activity; eat warm, energy-rich foods; make fires; stay overnight take breaks house cabin, car, other protected places reduce exposure environment. Coping conditions not only requires flexibility, preparedness, innovation but also thoughtful caution when approaching managing unexpected situations. conclude modernization husbandry, change, rapidly increasing land use competition drive modify mechanisms may create new, vulnerabilities.