Camel
| Camel | |
|---|---|
| Image |  Drawing of a Camel |
| Plural | Camels |
| Type | Mammal |
| Region(s) | Arezilur |
| Subregion(s) | Arezilur Desert • Bugluria |
Introduction
Camels are large, long-necked mammals of Arezilur, adapted to the desert and able to go long periods with little water. They are domesticated as pack and riding animals and carry the caravans of the Berturracioi between the oases.
Etymology
Camel is the English name. In Berturraci the animal is called gambillo.
Description
Camels stand about 6 ft (1.8 m) at the shoulder and weigh about 900–1,300 lb (400–600 kg). They have a single large hump on the back, a long curved neck, a small head with heavy-lidded eyes and a split upper lip, and long, thin legs. The feet are broad and padded, with two toes, and spread on soft sand. Long, shaggy hair grows on the hump, neck and shoulders; the coat elsewhere is short. The tail is thin and ends in a tuft.
Behaviour
Camels live in herds. They tolerate great heat by day and cold by night, can travel for days without drinking, and drink large amounts at once when they reach water. The hump stores fat, which sustains them when food is scarce. Domesticated camels are trained to kneel to be loaded and mounted.
Distribution and Habitat
Camels live throughout the Arezilur Desert and Bugluria, and are kept wherever the caravan trails run, from the oases to the coast and to Gristilia.
Diet
Camels graze on desert shrubs, thorny plants and dry grasses, and eat plants that most other grazing animals avoid. Caravan animals are fed at the oases.
In Society
Camels are the pack and riding animals of the nomadic Berturracioi, and the caravans that link the oases, the coast and the cities of Arezilur depend on them. The Berturracioi also use their milk, meat, hair and hides. The Qerem also keep and use camels.
See also