Dromedary

Camelus dromedarius

The dromedary is a large herbivorous mammal adapted to deserts. It is diurnal and moves in herds across dry landscapes.

Key facts

Dromedary (Camelus dromedarius) is a herbivore animal classified as Mammal · Cetartiodactyla · Camelidae.
Primary habitats are desert, with a range across Palearctic · Afrotropical.
Activity is diurnal, sociality is herd, and conservation status is LC (Least Concern).
The dromedary is a large herbivorous mammal adapted to deserts.
It uses deserts and arid plains, moving between sparse vegetation and water sources.
Typical lifespan: 10-20 years

Habitat range map

Native rangeOccasional / Transient

Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)

It uses deserts and arid plains, moving between sparse vegetation and water sources. Its body is built to withstand heat and dryness.

Body length is about 220-340 cm and weight about 300-600 kg. A single hump, long legs, broad feet, and long eyelashes aid desert travel.

Diurnal herds move steadily while feeding. During intense heat, activity slows and animals use wind exposure or shade when available.

It is herbivorous, eating dry grasses, shrub leaves, and salt-tolerant plants. Tough lips allow it to handle coarse or thorny vegetation.

Calves are born well developed and soon follow the mother. They grow while nursing within the moving herd.

Its status is listed as Least Concern. It has a long association with people and is central to travel and life in many dry regions.