Livestock

The reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) has long been herded by northern peoples of Eurasia, such as the Lapps of Scandinavia. This animal is mostly raised for its meat, milk, and hides. In recent years, a strong market has developed for the antlers of reindeer, especially when they are still covered with fur, that is, are "in velvet." These antlers are sold to countries in eastern Asia, especially China and Korea, where they are powdered and used as an ingredient in traditional medicines.

Various other species of deer are being increasingly kept as livestock, often on so-called "game ranches." Most commonly kept in this way are the American elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) and the Eurasian red deer (C. elaphus). Both of these species of deer can be considered as being in the early stages of domestication, and they may be more important as livestock in the future.