Bactrian camels have two humps and thick shaggy coats for the cold deserts of Central Asia. They're one of the simplest habitats in the game to build, and that's not a bad thing. A simple habitat is a good chance to practise making an open space look interesting. Only the Bactrian camel is in the game, not the one-humped dromedary.
Animations
Camels got improved animations: they walk sideways (strafing), place their feet properly on slopes and move as a group. Build some gentle slopes so you can see it.
What camels need
- Open, dry ground. Sand and dry soil.
- A shelter. An indoor stable is ideal.
- A little water. A shallow ditch works, and camels will drink from it.
That's really it. You can spend your time on the look instead.
Ideas for a camel habitat
Raised land as a barrier
Raised ground behind the habitat makes a natural barrier and gives the camels somewhere away from guests. It also hides the back fence.
The old zoo makeover
Camels are perfect for a "historic zoo" style build. Picture an old round display plateau surrounded by a concrete ditch, the way zoos used to show animals. Keep the old plateau as part of the new habitat and turn it into an education viewpoint about how zoos have changed.
Reshape the paths with gentle ramps so they're accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Keepers and decorative ditches
Staff will cut straight across decorative ditches and dry moats. If that bothers you, place a short fake fence to make them walk around.
Tips
- A small camel ride or keeper talk point nearby gives guests a reason to stop.
- Use Central Asian rocks, dry grass and sparse shrubs. Don't overplant. This is a desert animal.