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Asia

Camel (Bactrian Camel)
Camelus bactrianus


There are two different camel species: one-humped (dromedaries) and two-humped (Bactrian camels).

Camels live in arid areas. Their body can withstand temperature increases from 34º to 41º C without perspiring and thus losing water. A camel can manage for up to two weeks without water, but by then it will be thirsty and can drink 200 litres at the first opportunity. Whenever food is abundant, it stores surplus fat in its humps. These fat stores can be converted into water during hot periods.

Camels have long eyelashes and small ears with lots of hair. They can also close their nostrils. These adaptive features keep them from getting sand in their eyes, ears and nose.
 
 
 

Fakta

Weight:
650 kg

Food:
Dry vegetation, thorny shoots and twigs.

Habitat:
Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Sexual maturity:
Males 5–6 years, females 3–4 years

Gestation period:
12–15 months

Number of offspring:
1, very rarely 2

Life expectancy:
50 years