Paper Title
CHANGES IN USE OF THE DROMEDARY CAMEL

Abstract
Abstract - Today, there are approximately 5000 camels in the Negev, declining from about 11,000 in 1978. The decline in camel numbers coincided with the reduced importance of the camel. The camel stopped being used for transportation – a function taken over by four-wheel drive pick-up trucks, as is common throughout the Middle East. Furthermore, the camel is not being used for plowing or as a pack animal as modern vehicles have taken over these functions. However, there is some revival in the interest in the camel, mainly due to its milk. There is a market for milk for medicinal purposes, apparently being effective in preventing/curing diabetes and cancer, and for its use in the manufacture of face creams. In addition, much research is being done on camel urine for its potential medicinal properties, especially in curing cancer. A further interest in the camel is in the tourist industry. Camel treks and rides are being offered by a number of outfitters in the Negev and camels are being kept at a number of tourist sites for rides and photos. Occasionally, camel races are still held at weddings in the traditional Bedouin way. Keywords - Camel Milk, Desert Eco-Tourism, Dromedary Camel, Negev Bedouins