Ships Of The Desert

"Camels are known as the "ships of the desert." They can glide across desert sands with ease, and provide one of the most important modes of transportation for people in desert areas...Bactrain camels can maintain speed for longer periods of time over great distances (about 30 miles a day), and can carry extremely heavy loads (equivalent to 8 large suitcases!) in the process..Except for giraffes, camels are the tallest land-living animals, sometimes growing up to 7 feet. And talk about well designed! Camels have wide, cushioned feet that spread out as they walk. This helps them maneuver in the sand. They have tough pads on their chests and knees that help support their body weight when they kneel down. To protect themselves from sandstorms, they have not one, but two rows of eyelashes, and can close their nostrils completely. " - Source Discovery Magazine (www.discoverymagazine.com)