Australia Has the Largest Camel Population in the World.

By Purity Karambu  | The Common Pulse/latest news/kenya/Abroad/Africa / September 2025

Australia Largest Camel Population

It may come as a surprise, but Australia holds the record for the largest camel population in the world, with estimates of over a million camels roaming freely across the vast desert regions. Unlike many countries that use camels as domesticated animals, Australia’s herds are mostly feral, making them one of the most unique wildlife phenomena on the planet.

Camels in Australia

Camels were first introduced in the 19th century to help explorers and settlers navigate the harsh interior landscapes. Today, camels in Australia are a mix of wild herds and managed populations, contributing to tourism, exports, and even research.

Feral Camels Australia

The majority of the camel population consists of feral camels that thrive in remote outback regions. While they are resilient animals adapted to desert life, their growing numbers pose ecological challenges, leading to government culling and management programs.

Australian Camel History

The story of camels in Australia dates back to 1840, when Afghan cameleers imported them to transport goods across the arid interior. This Australian camel history shaped the country’s exploration and infrastructure development, leaving a cultural legacy that still exists today.

Camel Population in Australia

Current estimates suggest the camel population in Australia fluctuates between one and two million, depending on climate conditions and management efforts. This makes the country the only place in the world where camels live in such large, free-ranging numbers.

Wild Camels in Australia

The wild camels in Australia are incredibly self-sufficient, surviving without human intervention in some of the toughest environments. Found across Western Australia, the Northern Territory, South Australia, and Queensland, they have adapted perfectly to the desert climate.

Australia Camel Facts

Some fascinating camel facts about Australia include: it is home to the only wild dromedary population in the world, camels can drink up to 200 liters of water in one go, and they play a role in desert ecology by spreading seeds across vast areas.

Camels in Australian Outback

The Australian outback would not be the same without its camels. They are often spotted wandering the red deserts, becoming a distinctive part of the landscape and even featuring in tourism activities like camel rides at Uluru and Broome.

Camel Industry in Australia

The camel industry in Australia is growing, with camels being used for meat, milk, leather, and eco-tourism. Camel milk, in particular, is gaining popularity for its nutritional benefits, creating new markets locally and internationally.

Camel Exports from Australia

Australia also profits from camel exports, particularly to the Middle East, where demand for high-quality camels for meat, racing, and breeding is strong. This makes the camel not just a part of Australia’s ecological story, but also a contributor to its economy.