
The
history of Camels being domesticated by humans dates back around 3,500
years. In the desert zones of India, the Camel is considered to be the
lifeline of people. From being a beast of burden to providing milk, meat,
wool and leather, this even-toed ungulate is too much a part of the peoples
life in deserts. Camel safaris and Camel trading in the northwestern state
of Rajasthan in India invite hordes of travellers from around the globe.
Scientific Classification of Camel
Kingdom
: Animalia
Class : Mammalia
Family : Camelidae
Species : C. bactrianus, C. dromedarius, C. gigas,
C. hesternus, C. sivalensis
Phylum : Chordata
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Order :
Artiodactyla
Genus : Camelus
Latin Name : Camel dromedary/ Camel bactrians
Local Names : Oonth male/ Oonthni
female (Hindi), Uutt (Bengali)
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Physical Trait of Camel

The
single humped dromedary Camel has a long curved neck and a deep narrow
chest. As compared to the other parts of the body, the hair length is
greater on the throat, shoulder and the hump. This species of Camels can be
seen in a group of 2-20, comprising one male, one (or several females) and
the young ones. The Camel attains sexual maturity at the age of 4 or 5 and
begins mating around the same time. Generally, a she-Camel gives birth to
one offspring at a time. The gestation period spans 15 months. The young
ones reach adulthood after being raised for a span of 2 years. It is
interesting to note that the size of a Camels hump keeps on changing
shape depending upon the supply of nutrients. In time of starvation, the
hump grows smaller in size.
Habitat & Diet of India
Camels are able to live in the desert areas; the north (Ladakh) and
northwestern part of the Indian peninsula i.e. the Thar Desert (Rajasthan)
are chief sites where one can have an encouter with these Camels. Camels
mostly thrive on thorny bushes and dry grasses. They can continue for days
without having even a mouthful of water. The fact makes it obvious that the
Camel has incredibly adapted itself to the rigorous climatic conditions of
the desert.
Spotting the Camel

Being
close to a Camel and hugging its trunk is truly a delight. And sitting
astride it to roam the expansive sands of the desert is an experience that
you may never want to forget. Travellers need to head straight to the state
of Rajasthan in northwestern India. Ample opportunities are just waiting for
you here. Take an elephant ride at the Sariska National Park, run this ship
of the desert along the sands or get to the Sam sand dunes to have the time
of your life. Camel Safaris can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Though summers can also prove to be full of fun (if properly equipped with
the essentials), winters are the ideal time to please yourself with a
wonderful Camel ride.