Geographical Range Mongolia (in central Asia)
Habitat Deserts and grasslands
Scientific Name Camelus bactrianus
Conservation Status Critically endangered

Camels' adaptations to their desert lifestyle are well-known. Long eyelashes and elongated nostrils protect them from blowing dust and sand. Camels can survive without water for long periods of time, and energy-rich fat stored in their humps enables them to survive long periods without food. When camels do eat, they will forage on any plants available.

Pregnancy in camels lasts for 11 months and calves are generally born in March and April. Spring is also the time when Bactrian camels completely shed their thick dark winter coat, leaving them almost hairless during the hot summer months.

Although domesticated Bactrian camels number in the millions, there are less than 1,000 wild camels left in their native range in Mongolia.

Did You Know?

The two humps of Bactrian camel calves lay flat against their sides at birth.