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A new member at Madrid Zoo: the bactrian camel calf that captures hearts

A new calf has arrived at Madrid Zoo Aquarium: discover how this little bactrian camel is winning hearts as it celebrates its first month.

Ana TorresAna Torres· · 3 min read

The birth that brings joy to Madrid Zoo Aquarium

The Madrid Zoo Aquarium is enthusiastically celebrating the arrival of a new resident: an adorable bactrian camel calf. Born on March 18, this little one is already taking its first steps alongside its mother, Comillas, and has begun to attract the attention of zoo visitors.

Weighing approximately 40 kilos and measuring around 110 centimetres, its greyish fur and white legs are distinctive features that have sparked curiosity among those visiting the zoo. Over the coming weeks, attendees will be able to observe it in the outdoor meadow, always under maternal supervision and depending on the wellbeing of the little one.

The bactrian camel is known for being one of the most resilient animals on the planet. Native to inhospitable regions such as Mongolia and northern China, this mammal adapts to extreme temperatures, from intense heat to freezing winters. Unlike the dromedary, it has two humps, where it stores fat to survive in adverse conditions.

Its thick fur acts as a natural insulator, allowing it to regulate its body temperature during seasonal variations. Additionally, its diet includes dry grasses and thorny plants that other animals cannot consume, giving it an advantage in its natural habitat.

This birth adds to other exciting events at the zoo. During this Holy Week, visitors will be able to see not only the new camel calf but also small meerkats exploring their surroundings and an elegant sitatunga calf. Furthermore, a young great horned owl is beginning to stretch under the watchful eye of its caregivers.

To make this time of year even more special, the zoo has organised camps aimed at children aged 4 to 14 years. These activities include interactive workshops focused on animal conservation and guided tours of the facilities.

Not only will there be educational activities; an exciting search for secret eggs scattered throughout the park will also take place. Each egg will contain letters that will form a final message for those participants who wish to receive a small gift upon completion.

Mindful of environmental impact, the Zoo Aquarium recommends using public transport. Visitors can easily access it via EMT line 33 or Metro lines 5 and 10 to Casa de Campo.

Aside from being a recreational place for families, the zoo is an active member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA), participating in 63 international programmes dedicated to endangered species. These include white and Indian rhinoceroses, giant otters from the Amazon, and Bornean orangutans.

Ana Torres

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Ana Torres