Bactrian Camel
Native to Mongolia and China, the stand out feature of the Bactrian Camel is its signature second hump. Similarly to to the single humped Dromedary Camel, the hump stores fat that can be metabolised for energy when neither food or water is available in the harsh desert conditions. These humps give the Camel its legendary ability to roam for days with no direct access to water or food.
Despite there being large populations of domestic Bactrian Camels, this species’ wild cousin is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
IUCN Listing: Critically Endangered
At a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild
Fact File
Native Range
China and Mongolia
Natural Habitat
Deserts
Diet
Omnivorous: mostly herbivore
Life Expectancy
In the wild: Up to 40 years
In zoos: Up to 50 years
Breeding
Gestation period:
360 – 440 days. 1 – 2 calves
Group Name
A Flock or Herd
Active Hours
During the day
Threats
Hunting, persecution, habitat loss, increased predation
Fun Fact
Most of the time Bactrian Camels move slowly to conserve energy, but, if needed they can run at speeds of over 40 miles per hour!