The herdsmen must get the animals to new grazing before the snow melts and they are trapped by water-logged land. They need to grow fat in the warm weather if they are to endure the winter freeze. 

 

The elder of the tribe feeds them salt, a rare delicacy that makes him very popular. But walking in a forest of reindeer antlers is a dangerous business. 

 

As soon as they secure the reindeer, it’s time to celebrate by eating one, starting with the tongue. Like cattle in other parts of the world, reindeer form the lifeline of these Yakut people. Everyone depends on them. 

 

The animals provide food, clothing, leather, and more. Left on their own, reindeer can wander farther than any other terrestrial mammal, about 5000 kilometers a year, and reach speeds about to 80 kilometers per hour. In the summer, they can form herds in the tens of thousands. But for the Yakuts, this little herd will do just fine.