Camels are present in Israel, primarily as domesticated animals. These one-humped creatures are a common sight, especially in the southern desert regions. Their presence is deeply rooted in the country’s historical and cultural landscape.
The Dromedary Camel
The dromedary camel, also known as the Arabian camel, is the specific species found in Israel. Adult males stand between 1.8 and 2.4 meters at the shoulder, weighing 400 to 690 kg, with females being slightly smaller. Their brown coat, long curved neck, and narrow chest are distinctive. The hump, composed of fat, serves as an energy reserve, allowing them to endure periods without food.
These camels exhibit remarkable adaptations for survival in arid environments. They tolerate significant water loss (over 30% of body weight) and can fluctuate body temperature throughout the day from 31 to 41.7 °C to conserve water. Specialized kidneys minimize water loss, and oval-shaped red blood cells facilitate circulation when dehydrated. They can also close their nostrils to keep out sand and have long eyelashes for eye protection.
Camels in History and Culture
Camels hold profound historical and cultural significance in Israel and the broader Middle East. For centuries, these animals were indispensable for survival and commerce in the desert. They served as a primary mode of transport, facilitating trade routes like the ancient spice trade.
Their importance is reflected in biblical narratives, where camels appear as beasts of burden and symbols of wealth. Nomadic peoples, particularly the Bedouins, relied heavily on camels for transportation, milk, and meat. Their ability to traverse vast, arid distances connected communities and enabled economic activity across challenging terrains. This enduring legacy highlights their deep integration into the region’s cultural identity.
Camels Today in Israel
In contemporary Israel, camels are almost exclusively domesticated and primarily found in the southern Negev Desert. They are largely owned and managed by Bedouin communities, where they continue to hold cultural importance. While no longer the primary mode of transportation, camels retain various roles in modern Israeli society.
Many are utilized in tourism, offering camel rides to visitors. Some Bedouin families still use them for herding or for traditional products like milk, meat, and wool. The Israeli Ministry of Agriculture has been involved in efforts to tag camels with identity chips, indicating a measure of oversight and management of these animals. Camel racing is a traditional sport within Israel’s Bedouin community, drawing thousands of spectators.