Santa might have some trouble filling in slots for new reindeers in 2015. A recent study published in the Journal of Nature Conservation stated that a small population of reindeers in China may be under threat of extinction. The study also highlighted, that the reindeers inhabiting this particular area have been reported to die at an alarming rate from various causes.

The reindeers in northern China are apparently more domesticated than the rest of their peers inhabiting the Arctic region. In fact, an indigenous tribal group that originated from Siberia called Ewenki are known to herd some of the reindeer population in those parts. The Ewenki are said to have migrated from Siberia to northern China at around 1654 with their reindeers.

The reindeer population in the Mangui region has been steadily deteriorating. In fact, since 2010, there have not been more than around 800 of the animals in a healthy state. Several attempts at breeding reindeers in captivity were made, however, none were successful. In fact, all attempts were abandoned after 200 of the population died in August and September 2003.

Researchers have found that there are several causes for the dwindling numbers among the reindeer population. However, one of the most threatening causes, is perhaps poaching. It is reported that poachers hunt and kill reindeers for their antlers. The antlers are generally used in making perfumes and even as ingredients to make some kinds of traditional Chinese medicine.

There is some encouraging news however; the Chinese government is attempting to safeguard the animals from future threats by relocating them to a more hospitable environment. The reindeers have also been placed in the Chinese State Key Protected Wildlife list, which makes the hunting or killing of reindeers, without permission, an illegal and punishable offense. There have also been some talks of conducting artificial insemination programmes to facilitate the growth o the reindeer population. The renewed efforts of the Chinese government may help preserve the reindeer from the evil clutches of extinction.