Why Is a Baby Reindeer Called a Calf?

Q: What is a baby reindeer called?

A baby reindeer is called a calf. Reindeer calves can stand within an hour of birth

Q: What other animals are called calfs?

Yes! 15 animals share the baby name "Calf": bison, camel, cow, dolphin, elephant, elk, giraffe, hippopotamus, manatee, moose, narwhal, reindeer, rhinoceros, walrus, whale.

The story behind the baby animal name “Calf” — its origin, meaning, and history.

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Baby Animal Names Editorial Team

·Updated 2025

Quick Answer

A baby reindeer is called a calf. The name "Calf" has been used for baby reindeers for centuries.

The Origin of “Calf”

The baby animal name “Calf” for reindeers has deep roots in the English language. Like many baby animal names, it evolved from practical usage — people who worked closely with animals needed specific terms to describe their young.

Baby animal names often come from Old English, Latin, French, or indigenous languages. They reflect how humans have interacted with and categorized animals throughout history.

Other Animals Called “Calf”

“Calf” isn't unique to reindeers.15 animals share this baby name:

Wild Animals

Farm Animals

Farm Animals

Sea Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Sea Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Sea Animals

Sea Animals

See all animals called “Calf” →

Fun Facts About Baby Reindeers

•Reindeer calves can stand within an hour of birth
•They can run alongside the herd by their second day
•Calves weigh 5-8 kg at birth
•Reindeer are the only deer species where both sexes grow antlers

Did You Know?

Reindeer calves can outrun a human when they're just one day old — they have to keep up with the migrating herd!

How to Pronounce “Calf”