The Arabian camel, also known as the dromedary camel, is one of the most famous species in the camel family. It is a solitary-humped camel. The Arabian camel is characterized by its massive body and its ability to adapt to harsh desert environments.
In this article about camel in TekeTrek Website, we will introduce you to the most important information related to this object. Follow along with us.
Key features of the Arabian camel
- It has a long neck and a large body, with only one hump.
- The large hump on its back allows it to store fat and food for periods of drought and scarcity
- Adult males can reach a length of 1.8 to 2.4 meters, while females range from 1.7 to 1.9 meters
- Male weights typically range from 400 to 690 kilograms, while females weigh between 300 and 540 kilograms.
- Their split hooves and strong legs allow them to move easily in desert and sandy environments. However, they can be sensitive to extreme conditions like sharp rocks or scorching hot ground.
- Their lips are divided in the middle, allowing precise movements for feeding on coarse desert vegetation.
Color and coat
- The coat color usually ranges from light brown to sandy brown. It can also be almost black to pale white. This variation may be due to the different environments they inhabit.
- Their hair is coarse and rugged, providing protection against harsh desert conditions. Long hair around the neck, shoulders, and hump helps regulate body temperature during cold nights and provides additional protection from the sun and sand during the day
- Their thick, long eyelashes protect their eyes from sand and dust common in desert environments.
Water adaptation
- Arabian camels can survive without water for up to a month. Their bodies are adapted to store water, allowing them to utilize large quantities when available and continue living for several days or even weeks without urgent need for drinking.
- They can adjust their body temperature to prevent excessive sweating in high external temperatures.
- Their thick fur helps reduce water loss through evaporation.
- They can drink up to 100 liters of water within 10 minutes and tolerate moderately salty water.
Behavior
- Generally, Arabian camels are friendly and well-behaved when treated properly and with care. However, they may exhibit aggressive behavior if they feel threatened, fearful, or uncomfortable.
- During mating season, males may compete for females, displaying behaviors like light fighting or asserting dominance.
Reproduction
- Breeding usually occurs between February and April.
- Females reach sexual maturity at around 3 years but do not mate until 4 or 5 years old. Males start showing signs of sexual excitement at 3 years but do not reach full sexual maturity until around 6 years
- After fertilization, the gestation period lasts approximately 13 months.
- Female camels usually give birth to a single calf during the winter and care for it for one or two years, continuing to nurse during this period.
Uses
- Transport and Load Carrying:
Used for transporting goods and heavy loads in desert environments.
- Meat and Milk:
Consumed as food in some cultures, and their milk is used for various purposes.
- Tourism:
Camel riding is part of the tourist experience in deserts and arid regions.
- Cultural Performances:
Used in cultural and heritage events as a symbol of Bedouin culture.
- Leather and Wool:
Their hides and wool are used for traditional clothing and blankets.
- Racing:
In some places, camel races are organized for entertainment and competition.
Arabian camel milk
- A significant food source in Bedouin cultures, it contains high levels of protein, fat, lactose, and essential minerals.
- Although it lacks some vitamins and other nutrients found in cow’s milk, it is stable at high temperatures and is frequently milked in some cultures.
Speeds
- Walking:
Approximately 4 km/h (2.5 mph)..
- Trotting:
Common speed, ranging from 8 to 12 km/h (5.0-7.5 mph) on flat ground
- Fast running:
Speeds between 14 to 19 km/h (8.7-11.8 mph), especially observed in North African and Arabian camels
- Galloping:
Used for short bursts, such as racing
Training and taming
- Training usually begins around 3 years old, focusing on accepting riders and handling. Commands for sitting and standing are taught.
- Resistance may occur during this stage, as camels may try to escape when riders attempt to mount them.
- Gradual training includes responding to reins and control. Heavy loads should be introduced gradually after the age of 6. Avoid hitting their necks; instead, strike behind the rider’s right leg.
- Positive reinforcement and gentle methods work best for training. Duration varies based on individual temperament and responsiveness.
The most important frequently asked questions about the Arabian camel
- What is the difference between a camel with one hump and a camel with two humps?
The difference between it and the two-humped camel (Falij)
The wild camel is slightly smaller than the two-humped camel, and has a smaller, thin foot and a narrow body.
- What is the benefit of camels?
The economic importance of camels. Currently, the benefit of camels through leather and fiber has increased, as camel skins are used in the production of leather products, including bags, shoes and clothing.
- Why does a camel endure thirst for a long time?
The camel has an amazing ability to withstand thirst due to its ability to tolerate the lack of water in its body tissues, and through this it does not lose water from its blood fluid except to a very small percentage.
- How much water does a camel drink?
Camels can drink 200 liters of water in 3 minutes
in the end. He learns sentences best when instruction is delivered in positive, gentle ways, with rewards and praise for providing the correct response to commands. Training can take varying amounts of time depending on the sentence, his personality, and his level of responsiveness.