Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch

Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch in Shabbona, Illinois raises reindeer on an 80-acre family farm in DeKalb County, about an hour southwest of Chicago. Founded in September 2018 by Randy and Beth Espe, the operation got its start when the couple welcomed their first four reindeer sourced from Alaska, with the herd since growing to more than a dozen animals.

Before acquiring any reindeer, the Espes joined the Reindeer Owners and Breeders Association (ROBA) and the Reindeer Farmers Association (RFA) to build a solid foundation in responsible breeding and husbandry. Randy brought prior experience with beef cattle to the learning curve of raising reindeer, and the animals are kept within secure fenced pasture and shelters purpose-built for the herd. Daily care includes a diet of processed pellet feed, beet pulp, and hay, with willow branches offered as a seasonal treat.

The ranch doubles as a Christmas tree farm, with more than 3,000 trees across seven varieties planted on the property. Those looking for reindeer for sale in Illinois or reindeer event experiences will find that the Espes have shaped their program around hands-on, halter-trained animals accustomed to close human contact from an early age.

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