Unrelenting high temperatures are having a devastating impact on the robust camel population in arid regions, as the scorching heatwave sweeps across deserts, reaching unprecedented levels.
The surge in temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in Africa and the Middle East has raised concerns among experts. Camels, traditionally known for their endurance in hot climates, are now struggling to cope with the extreme heat, leading to dehydration, exhaustion, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
In regions like northern Africa and the Horn of Africa, farmers heavily rely on camels for transporting goods such as salt across the desert. The decision to switch from cattle to camels was driven by their remarkable ability to withstand heat and survive harsh drought conditions.
Ali Umer, a camel herder residing in north-eastern Ethiopia, expressed distress over the visible suffering of his 500 camels due to the intense heat. He described the physical toll on the camels, including foot blisters, watery eyes, and skin damage caused by scorching sand.
The ability of camels to regulate their body temperature within a range of about 40 degrees Celsius has been noted by experts. Their unique coat provides protection from the sun, and their limited sweating helps them adapt to harsh conditions, aiding in their survival.
Dr. Mohammed Bengoumi from the UN Food and Agriculture organization emphasized that while camels can withstand temperatures up to a certain threshold, prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses a risk of heat stress. With temperatures frequently exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in the Sahara, combined with reduced vegetation and water scarcity, the peril of heat stress is heightened.
To mitigate the impact of drought and extreme heat, many camel herders in Ethiopia are relocating their herds from the north to the south, where there is more access to water and vegetation. This move, as highlighted by Bengoumi, may not be temporary but a permanent shift necessitated by the changing climate conditions.
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