Reindeer Are the Star Attraction of an Illinois Ranch During the Holidays
In central Illinois, a reindeer ranch has become a beloved holiday destination, delighting visitors with the chance to see these magical creatures up close. Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch serves as a unique winter attraction, bringing joy to families and visitors from near and far.
Why It Matters
This charming ranch not only offers holiday cheer but also helps educate the public about reindeer, dispelling common myths about these animals. For many families, a visit to the ranch has transformed into a cherished holiday tradition, fostering connections with friends, family, and the natural world.
Key Developments
- Location and Setup: Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch spans 60 acres and includes a shop for festive gifts and Christmas tree sales.
- Ownership: Mark and Julie Hardy have dedicated three decades to raising reindeer, currently managing a herd of 20 that includes three generations.
- Visitor Experience: The ranch attracts thousands of visitors each winter, with reindeer tours being a major highlight.
- Educational Insights: Tour guide Olivia Cenzano addresses common misconceptions about reindeer, emphasizing their reality in contrast to mythical creatures.
- Family Traditions: Families, like the Taylors, have made visiting the ranch an annual tradition for over a decade.
- Animal Care: The Hardys adapt their care routine for the reindeer, catering to their needs during hot summer months and long winters.
Full Report
Ranch Overview
Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch has established itself as a destination where families can engage with reindeer, creating memorable experiences during the holiday season. The ranch is home to 20 reindeer, including notable individuals like Holly, a 16-year-old matriarch, and her offspring, Jolly and Dolly.
Visitor Attraction
During the winter months, the ranch becomes a magnet for visitors worldwide, drawing crowds eager to engage in activities such as reindeer tours. Olivia Cenzano, a tour guide at the ranch, shares that a significant number of people mistakenly believe reindeer are fictional, akin to unicorns. However, visitors quickly learn about the real-life habits and traits of these fascinating animals.
Megan Taylor, a long-time visitor, recounts her family’s experience, having celebrated 14 years of visits to the ranch with her children, highlighting its impact on their holiday traditions. Her son, Bear, enthusiastically describes the unique interaction with the reindeer, where they take graham crackers from visitors’ mouths.
Seasonal Adjustments
The Hardys ensure the well-being of their reindeer, particularly as the weather changes. Animals native to colder climates, the reindeer require specific care in hotter conditions. Mark Hardy explains that during summer heat, they rely on fans, shaded barns, and stay cool indoors. In contrast, their winter coats enable them to thrive in extreme cold, with a remarkable resilience to temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Additionally, reindeer have a unique way of staying hydrated, primarily consuming snow. Hardy notes that while he provides them with water, they prefer this natural alternative.
Context & Previous Events
Mark and Julie Hardy have been raising reindeer for thirty years, fostering a deep connection with these animals and their unique needs. Their dedication has transformed Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch into a distinctive holiday experience, promoting awareness and appreciation for reindeer among the public during the festive season.
