Santa and reindeer cleared for arrival

Invasive species are a big deal in Hawai‘i, so it’s comforting to know that Santa and his reindeer have been cleared for their annual arrival in the islands and throughout the United States.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, or APHIS, on Monday issued a transit permit to one Mr. S. Nicholas Claus, described as a global distributor with Gifts and Good Cheer Inc., from the North Pole.

“APHIS is thrilled to grant Mr. Claus and his reindeer this special permit once again, ensuring their smooth passage for a night of festive joy and goodwill,” said Jenny Lester Moffitt, under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs, in announcing the Jolly Old Elf’s permit approval. “We are proud to support this cherished holiday tradition — fueled in part by America’s finest milk, cookies and carrots.”

With the permit, Claus and his 9 reindeer — you know, Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen; Comet and Cupid and Donner and Biltzen, plus the most famous one of all, Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer — are allowed to enter and exit the United States and all of its territories between 6 p.m. today, Christmas Eve, and 6 a.m. Christmas Day, through, over or near any U.S. border or port of entry.

Veterinarians also verified the health of each reindeer before the permit was issued.

“During their annual inspection, the reindeer were found to be in excellent health, fit for their demanding journey and ready to prance with holiday cheer,” reported U.S. Department of Agriculture Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Rosemary Sifford.

Rudolph’s glowing red nose is noted on the health certificate, and officials reassure the public that the young buck’s unique characteristic is a trait that remains consistent with his health record and poses no concern.

Agricultural specialists also certified all inbound gift wrap and packaging materials as fully compliant with wood packaging material regulations, making sure U.S. forests remain safe and protected.

Even Claus’ sleigh will be cleaned and disinfected at the port of entry, including its runners and underside, to safeguard against potential livestock or plant pathogens that could be hitching a holiday ride.

Port personnel will visually inspect the reindeer and verify compliance with biosecurity measures, including the Big Man in Red himself disinfecting his boots and washing his hands.

He even provided an advance list of what port personnel should expect upon his and the reindeer arriving, including a variety of foods, all of which come from approved locations and none of which pose a threat to animal or plant health anywhere in the United States.

“It’s a team effort every year to make sure we follow proper procedures and keep everyone healthy and safe,” explained Claus. “I am grateful for USDA’s support in ensuring our holiday deliveries proceed without a hitch.”

Don’t forget: You can also track Claus’ progress with the North American Aerospace Defense Command’s official Santa Tracker. The agency has been tracking the Jolly Old Elf’s annual flights every year since the mid-1950s.

Claus was heading toward Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, by about 4:40 p.m. on Christmas Eve after already delivering more than 5.5 billion presents so far.

Google also has a Santa tracker available this year, which said he was arriving in São Paulo, Brazil, at about 4:42 p.m. Christmas Eve and had already delivered nearly 6 billion gifts since starting his trip around the globe.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all plants, animals and people in Hawai‘i and beyond, a happy, healthy holiday season and good night!