Reindeer In The Karoo

Armed with cardboard, paint, creativity, and a big dose of holiday spirit, Stefano and Gayn brought their “wild reindeer” to life. With antlers made of branches and a cheeky red smile, their creation was wheeled off to Nevada’s enclosure, where curiosity instantly took over.

To make the experience even more stimulating, they gave the reindeer a spritz of Calvin Klein’s Obsession for Men. It may sound unusual, but big cats around the world are famously drawn to this scent. The secret lies in Civitone, a compound that mimics a natural pheromone found in the glands of the African Civet. Blended with musk, sandalwood, and amber, it creates an irresistible perfume that sparks a remarkable response in predators like cheetahs, leopards, and tigers.

When Nevada caught the scent on his reindeer, he was hooked. He sniffed, rubbed, rolled, and eventually pounced, transforming enrichment time into an afternoon of play. For him, this was not simply a toy, but a chance to act on his natural instincts, exercise both body and mind, and enjoy a rare, playful interaction that keeps him thriving in human care.

For Stefano and Gayn, the joy was in seeing their hard work come alive. Laughter and pride shone on their faces as Nevada dismantled their reindeer with gusto. This is what volunteer life at Cango is all about. It is more than lending a hand. It is about creating moments that matter, building memories across continents, and becoming part of a global family dedicated to wildlife.

From Italy to South Korea to South Africa, this reindeer reminded us all that enrichment is as much about creativity and joy as it is about animal welfare. And judging by the shredded remains by the water’s edge, Nevada gave it his official stamp of approval.