Our Bactrian camel flock gains a new member

Animal news | 20 November 2023

The young cow born on 8 October 2022 at Allwetterzoo Münster and now resident in Dresden goes by the name of Manila. Our Bactrian camel family ‒ Sammy, Inka and young Farah ‒ gave her a warm welcome. The new female was quickly accepted, and Farah in particular immediately made contact and found a new playmate.

Manila is not yet of interest to bull Sammy, as cows only become sexually mature at around three years of age. But Manila, a curious and open-minded animal who loves to be stroked, immediately won the hearts of our keepers. These qualities will stand her in good stead when we start on her training. Camel training includes getting the animals accustomed to wearing a halter, leading them to the large scales in the service yard, and lots of contact with our animal keepers to build up trust.

It’s a useful and worthwhile activity for the Bactrian camels, and also very helpful for ensuring that they do not become stressed during medical examinations.