The eyes have heavy lashes, the ears are small and haired, and the upper lip is deeply divided. The slitlike nostrils can be closed to keep out dust and sand. There is a groove from each nostril to the cleft upper lip, so that any moisture from the nostrils can be caught in the mouth. The feet have two toes and undivided soles. The long, slender legs have prominent knee pads.
Camels live in arid areas.
C. bactrianus is found on the Gobi Steppe along rivers but moves to the desert as soon as the snow melts. Camels can withstand extreme heat and cold and are said to be good swimmers. Their characteristic rolling gait is accomplished by simultaneously bringing up both legs on the same side. Sight is keen, and the sense of smell is extremely good. Contrary to popular legend, there is no evidence that camels store water in the stomach.