By St. Paul Pioneer Press

It’s officially reindeer season — and St. Paul’s own are now on display for anyone to take in.

Animal Planet’s “Reindeer Cam” is live at the Como Park Zoo. Three of the majestic, hoofed creatures can be seen socializing, napping and, of course, being fed by Santa.

St. Nick himself will feed the reindeer, which range between 130 and 700 pounds, on Dec. 11, 18 and 23. Rumor has it he’ll be busy on Dec. 24.

“We noticed that people really seem to have an affinity for reindeer this time of year,” Michelle Furrer, the Como Park Zoo director, said in a news release. “There are so many reasons to be fascinated by their behavior and adaptations. They’re more than just Santa’s helpers.”

Their talents range beyond ferrying Kris Kringle about the globe. Reindeer also have a powerful sense of smell, able to pinpoint food up to three feet beneath snow. They are also the only deer species in which both genders grow antlers.

The Como Park Zoo is open 365 days a year, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.