18-Year-Old Camel Dies at National Zoo

Zoo officials say the 18-year-old male died suddenly Monday morning. A physical exam earlier this month indicated the camel was in good health. The cause of the animal's death won't be known until more tests are completed.

The Bactrian camel arrived at the National Zoo in 1987 from a zoo in Madison, Wis. The camels are considered critically endangered in the wild, where they can be found in northwest China and Mongolia.

The camels weigh between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds and are distinguishable by their two humps. The animals can live anywhere from 35 to 50 years.

Another Bactrian camel at the National Zoo was euthanized last year.

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