Fun Facts!

It is not uncommon to see policemen ride camels in Egypt!

A camel can store up to 80 pounds of fat in its hump, which it breaks down into water and energy as needed.

The dromedary camel can go weeks without water, but it seizes the opportunity when water is abundant, and can “tank up,” drinking about 30 gallons in about 13 minutes.

Dromedary Camel

Camelus dromedarius

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

Different from the Zoo’s Bactrian camels with two humps, the dromedary has one hump. They have a short fiber coat. Adult males grow to a height of about 6 feet, and weigh from 850-1400 pounds; females are a bit smaller. They can adaptable very well to temperatures above 100 degrees F. Male dromedaries have a soft palate, which they inflate to produce a deep pink sack, often mistaken for a tongue. Dromedaries are also noted for their thick eyelashes and small, hairy ears.

HABITAT

Probably originating in the Arabian Peninsula, dromedaries now roam in the arid regions of Northern Africa and much of the Middle East. This species has been introduced successfully in Australia.

DIET IN THE WILD

Just about any vegetation they can find!

BEHAVIOR

Dromedaries are sometimes considered to be bad-tempered and obstinate. Not so: They tend to be amiable, patient and intelligent. They show displeasure by stamping their feet or by running. Dromedaries are extensively domesticated and used for passenger travel in the desert at speeds up to 9 mph.

STATUS IN THE WILD / CONSERVATION EFFORTS

The dromedary camel is no longer found in the willd - they have been domesticated for thousands of years.

LIFE SPAN

Typically 40 to 50 years.