The new camels are housed in a large exhibit at the front of the Zoo.
COAL VALLEY, Ill. (May 12, 2017) –Two new Bactrian camels join the Niabi Zoo family on the weekend of May 13.
“We are thrilled about the arrival of the new Bactrian camels,” said Lee Jackson, director of the Niabi Zoo. “These animals are on the critically endangered list, and we’re very excited to be able to offer a sanctuary for this species of camel. This is another way the zoo helps connect visitors to the natural world, through conservation leadership and educational experiences.”
Bactrian camels may grow as tall as 7 ft. high at the hump, and weigh up to 1,800 lbs. The mammals are primarily herbivores, and their preferred habitats include desert, dune, savanna and grasslands. The camels are located near at the entrance of the Zoo.
“It's easy to tell the difference between Bactrian and the Arabian Dromedary camels, which the Zoo already has,” says Tammy Schmidt, assistant director. “The difference between the Dromedary and the Bactrian camel is the number of humps on their back. The Bactrian camel has two humps that actually may resemble the letter ‘B’ and the Dromedary has only one hump on their back shaped like the letter ‘D’.”
Camels use their humps to store fat which can be converted to water and energy during times when food is not available. The Bactrian camel lives in parts of central Asia and western China, and was domesticated at least 4,500 years ago in Bactria – which is presently Turkmenia and northern Iran.
The Bactrian camels are just one of the many new animals and attractions Niabi will welcome all season long, including the renovated reptile house with dozens of new species, the Aldabra giant tortoises, 200 new parakeets and the new aquatic-themed Oceans exhibit.
“As you visit the Zoo this season, you may notice construction projects throughout the grounds which are all signs of new and exciting things to come,” said Jackson. “Niabi Zoo is undergoing several construction projects to improve existing buildings and build new facilities. We appreciate your patience and support as we grow and expand.”
The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entry will take place at 4 p.m.
For more information about Niabi, its exhibits and upcoming events, visit NiabiZoo.com or Facebook.com/NiabiZoo.
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About Niabi Zoo
Niabi Zoo offers an opportunity to explore more than 40 acres that encompass 200 animal species from multiple continents while enjoying the countryside of Rock Island County. This exploration guides guests through the discovery of more than 600 animals representing over 200 species from around the world. The Zoo places great emphasis on educating both children and adults about the importance of conservation and how they can play a part in saving species and their ecosystems for future generations. The educational center is an important part of their mission to connect the community with the natural world through conservation leadership and engaging educational experiences. Niabi Zoo strives to instill a sense of care and understanding for wild animals in each and every visitor as they work in the community.
Niabi Zoo is now open for the 2017 season. For more information about the Zoo, visit NiabiZoo.com.
