Bactrian Camel

Farrah is a young camel who joined The Zoo family in September of 2022. When she was born, she experienced mobility issues due to contracted tendons in her feet. She was quickly hospitalized to treat these issues. The treatment was a success, but unforeseen medical complications nearly ended her life. After some serious recovery time and incredible veterinary care, Farrah made the move from New York to permanently join our animal family here at The Zoo.

Camelus bactrianus

20-40 years

Bactrian camels are a domesticated species, so they live wherever their human caretakers live. Wild bactrian camels (Camelus ferus) are migratory and live in rocky mountains and deserts in China and Mongolia.

Bactrian camels eat hay, grain, and other vegetation.

It is estimated that bactrian camels were domesticated around 4,500 BCE. They are strong and enduring pack animals. Contrary to popular myth, their humps store fat, not water.

Conservation Status

Threats in the Wild

A population of wild camels (Camelus ferus) exists in desert areas of Mongolia and China. This species is listed as critically endangered  and is threatened by toxic illegal mining, hunting and agricultural degradation of their habitat.

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