Giđđageassi - spring-summer (may - june)

Giđđageassi means spring-summer in northern Sámi language. With the arrival of May, the hard and consistent work of the reindeer owners finally starts to bear fruit. This period is the highlight of the year typically as it is calving time. The snow is almost completely gone and there is good access to food. The plateau abounds with newborn calves. It is normal for reindeer cows to give birth to one calf, but sometimes twins or triplets are born!

A host of hungry predators including sea eagles, golden eagles, bears, lynxes, and wolverines are on the lookout for fresh calf meat so owners have to pay extra attention to the herd. The weather also plays a big part in the survival of the calves. During a good year, 9 out of 10 calves survive, however, there have been years where it has only been 3-4 out of 10.

The reindeers must be easeful. Occasionally a cow becomes frightened and tries to escape, resulting in the calf being left behind. This is not safe for the little one. Nevertheless, some cows lack maternal instincts and leave their calves behind anyway. This is when the owners must keep a close watch. The calves that are abandoned are taken care of, and the mothers are marked and slaughtered in the autumn. Owners slaughter reindeer cows who abandon their young. It is preferred not to have cows that are incapable of nursing and caring for their calves.