Dromedary camel

Children’s Farms·Mammal

The dromedary camel has one hump and a long, curved neck. Camels have adapted for desert living. Broad feet enable it to walk on sand, thick eyelashes provide protection from blowing sand, callouses protect its knees and other areas that touch the sand, and its nostrils can close to keep sand out. Contrary to popular belief, the hump is used to store excess fat, not water. When water becomes available, it can consume up to 30 gallons and go very long periods before needing water again. Baby camels are born without a hump which forms when they begin eating solid foods.