Why does it have to be 8 flying caribou, anway? Couldn't he just be riding on some huge bird or something?

Answer 1

There are no birds big enough to carry a rotund man in red, and enough toys for all the children of the world, which are fast enough to complete all those deliveries worldwide overnight. Don't be silly!

Answer 2

Of course. I suppose it's because reindeer are animals that live in the north.

Answer 3

Thats how the story goes. If you don't like it, write your story.