Reindeer, Moose, Carrots, and Kisses

Before we moved to Alaska I started stocking up on Groupon deals for the area.  We were able to use one for a local Mexican restuarant, Jalapeno's.  It was delicious and I am sure we will go back.

When Mom came into town we redeemed a second certificate for The Reindeer Farm, located in Palmer, Alaska.  This was such a fun day!

The farm had a herd of Rocky Mountain Elk.  There was one male and his antlers were still in velvet.  The elk were still losing their winter coats, so they looked a little spotty.  We were warned that you could feed the elk, but to be careful because they had teeth and will bite.  That warning didn't make my boys shy, not one bit.

We had to keep a close eye on Nolan.  He would pick the shortest grasses to feed these hungry fellows.  I am not sure how Grandma and I would have explained the fact of a missing finger to Adam when he got home from work.

The farm also had a little pen that was full of chicks and bunnies.  Jack was able to catch a few of the birds and pose.  He's practicing for when we have our ranch in Montana.

The main attraction to the Reindeer Farm, was of course, the Reindeer.  We went into their pens as a group and were given little containers of food to share with these interesting creatures.  Their antlers were still in velvet and we were warned not to grab onto them because they are very sensitive while in this stage.  Did you know that both male and female reindeer have antlers?  I didn't either.

We took Claire into the pen in her stroller.  She wasn't too sure about these creatures that inspected her at eye level.  This fellow must have liked what he saw and gave her a sloppy kiss across the face.

Claire thought he moved too fast in their relationship and let everyone know it.

"Got any food, for me?"

Big Red

To feed the reindeer you put the pellets flat on your palm and then the deer kind of slurp them up.  Big Red and Jack formed a special bond.  However, when Jack's food dish was empty he moved along.  I guess it was a one sided relationship.

Meet Denali.  This Bull Moose has been at the farm for five years.  He was orphaned and the farm adopted him and bottle fed him.  Our tour guide compared his demeanor to that of a dog.  He was loyal, dependable, and loved snacks.  The boys were able to feed him Willow branches through the fence.

Jack and I were able to share a snack with Denali, as well.  However, the pig ate the whole carrot and didn't let me have one bite!!

He stole Jack's carrot, as well. He must have been hungry!