An Australian Feral Camel
Facts
The ancestors of Australian feral camels were dromedary camels imported to provide transport through inland Australia, which their feral descendants have since made their domain. While they do not appear to be as destructive as other introduced herbivores, their increasing numbers may affect native vegetation, and feral camels have become minor agricultural pests.
Many different types and breeds of camels were brought into Australia, but most were from India. They included the large, fleece-bearing, two-humped Bactrian camel of China and Mongolia, the elite Bishari riding camel of North Africa and Arabia, the pedigreed Bikaneri war camel of Rajasthan in India, and the powerful, freight-carrying lowland Indian camel, capable of moving huge loads of up to 800 kilograms or 1760 pounds.
The feral dromedary camels found in Australia are a meld of these breeds but can be split into two types: a slender riding form and a heavier pack animal.
Thousands of camels were imported between 1840 and 1907 to open up the arid areas of central and western Australia. They were used for riding, and as draught and pack animals for exploration and construction of rail and telegraph lines; they were also used to supply goods to remote mines and settlements.
Diet
Their impact on the environment is not as severe as other introduced pests in Australia. They prefer to eat trees and plants that local wildlife dislike; only 2% of their diet is grass; and having soft-padded feet, causing soil erosion is unlikely.
Predators
The Feral Camel is large and therefore does not easily fall prey to predators. The only predators it has are humans and very large crocodiles.
Environmental Effects
Camels may sometimes destroy taps, pumps and even toilets as a means to obtain water, particularly in times of severe draught. These effects are felt mostly in Aboriginal, and other remote communities, where the costs of repairs is prohibitive.
Extinct or Endangered?
No, it is alive and thriving in the remote desert areas of Australia
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