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. Although they are adapted for conservation of water, they will lose weight and strength if they go for long periods without drinking. Camels can and will drink brackish and even salt water. By drinking as much as 57 liters of water, camels restore the normal amount of body fluid. They eat practically any vegetation that grows in the desert or semiarid regions.