The main difference between deer and reindeer is that deer are typically found in forests and woodlands, while reindeer are specifically adapted to living in harsh, snowy environments such as the Arctic tundra. Reindeer also have different physical characteristics than deer, such as larger bodies, thicker fur, and larger hooves designed for walking in snow and ice. Additionally, reindeer are unique in their ability to survive extreme cold temperatures and their migration patterns that allow them to travel great distances in search of food and shelter.