Camels are astonishing creatures that are famous for their humps. Revered for their resilience, unique physical features, and ability to drink huge amounts of water, camels possess remarkable traits that you may not be aware of. Camels are culturally significant and well-valued in arid and Arab regions like the Middle East and North Africa. This article highlights five mind-blowing facts about camels that you should know.
Camels have strong stomach acids
Compared to other animals, camels have strong stomach acids that can digest and ferment string matters. Camels have a three-compartment stomach, which is different from the four compartments of ruminant animals.
The first compartment is similar to the rumen and aids in the fermentation of strong and salty plants. The fore stomach secretes volatile fatty acids, and the omasum, the third stomach, helps absorb liquid and moisture.
They are known as hydration machines
Camels have a unique ability to drink and retain huge amounts of water. This unique specialty comes in handy and ensures their survival in arid environments. Camels can also absorb water from their acidic stomach walls.
They can do this due to two unique organ variations. Their organs can hold multiple gallons of water and slowly optimize them at will. Also, their small intestine allows them to conserve water and promote optimal hydration for a long time.
Their feet are uniquely designed
Another mind-blowing physical feature of camels is their uniquely designed feet. Camel’s feet are bipedal units; that is, each foot has two toes that are adorned with soft foot pads. Their hooves are also different when compared to other animals.
Camel’s feet are wide and flat. The feet have no arch and allow for the even distribution of weight. This unique design reduces pressure at the joint, and their thick soles prevent their feet from sinking into deep sand. It also protects them from insect bites and rough terrains.
They possess air-conditioning nostrils
Camels have a unique nostril that also serves as an air-conditioning system. Their nostrils help regulate their temperature in hot, windy, and dry environments. Camel noses possess large mucosa structures. These structures provide a large surface area for oxygen and heat exchange.
Through it, cooler air gets into the lungs and spreads throughout the body, reducing the body’s temperature and getting the hot air out into the environment. Also, the mucosa hygroscopic nasal surface helps conserve water.
Camels have unique pregnancy duration
A camel’s pregnancy duration is another fascinating occurrence that will blow your mind. The average gestation period of a camel ranges between 12 to 14 months. The gestation length may be affected by the month of conception, unlike any other mammal.
According to research, camels conceiving in November experience a longer gestation period than those in May. A newborn calf can stand up hours after birth and fully adapt to its environment in months. Also, camels can stop mid-labor and hold onto the baby for weeks to lower the risk of death.
