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Why do camels have humps?

A camel's hump stores fat, like a lunchbox it carries on its back.

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Pip’s answer

  1. A camel's hump stores fat, like a lunchbox it carries on its back.
  2. In the hot desert, food can be very hard to find.
  3. When there is no food around, the camel uses fat from its hump for energy.
  4. Wow-ee, buddy, a camel can walk for days without eating a single bite!

For grown-ups

A camel's hump stores fat, not water. The camel can break down this fat for energy when food is scarce. Camels are also very good at conserving water and can drink large amounts quickly, which helps them survive long journeys in hot deserts.

Ask your child: What would you pack for a trip across the desert?

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