06-02-06-028-s

Name: Date:

Subject: Year 6 Literacy Unit: Bactrian camel

Bactrian Camel
Quick facts Diet: Herbivore Life span in the wild: Up to 50 years Size: 2.1 m at the hump Weight: 816 kg Group name: Flock or caravan Status: Endangered

The bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) has two humps and inhabits the rocky deserts of Central and East Asia. It has long, woolly fur that keeps it warm at night and cool during the day. Camels have long, thick eyelashes that protect their eyes from the blazing sun or freezing frost. Their nostrils close to keep out the dust in sandstorms. Their large, padded feet help them travel over rocky ground and also stop them from sinking in the sand. The two humps on their back store fat (not water), allowing them to travel long distances without eating or drinking. When camels do drink, they can take in 135 litres of water in less than 15 minutes. A camels large stomach can also hold huge amounts of grass. Female camels give birth to one calf after 12 14 months. The calf can stand immediately after birth, and can walk just a few hours later. Calves stay with their mothers for about 4 years.

Bactrian camels are endangered and are still threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Primary Leap Ltd. 2010 www.primaryleap.co.uk - Primary Resources

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8
06-02-06-028-s

Name: Date:

Subject: Year 6 Literacy Unit: Bactrian camel

Bactrian Camel
Answer the following questions:
1. How many humps does a bactrian camel have? ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Do camels eat meat or plants? ___________________________________________________________________ 3. What does a camel store in its hump? ___________________________________________________________________ 4. How does a camel keep dust out of its nose? a b It has long eyelashes It has two humps c It closes its nostrils

d It has wide feet

5. What is a baby camel called? ___________________________________________________________________ 6. How long does it take a baby camel to walk after birth? ___________________________________________________________________ 7. How long does a baby camel stay with its mother? ___________________________________________________________________ 8. Bactrian camels are endangered. Give two reasons why. ___________________________________________________________________
Primary Leap Ltd. 2010