Camel Craze Continues in Fleetwood

Posted on January 14, 2011 by

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Many people who live in or drive through Fleetwood know of the Fleetwood camel. The camel currently resides next to Boyer’s with a variety of other animals.

“I think he looks friendly, and he brightens my day, and I wish I knew him,” says FAHS student Autumn Noll.

Believe it or not, camels originated in Asia and came to America over the temporary land bridge connecting Alaska and the continent of Asia. Camels are nomadic, so it is logical that they migrated to South America and South Africa. Camels are omnivorous and eat whatever is available.  They are also good at adapting to their climates. That means no worries for our friend in town.

Erica Groncki, currently a freshman at the high school, says, “He’s really fun to watch. I know he doesn’t really do much, but I just love camels and I think they’re adorable! I have always wanted to go up the fence and just pet him!”

The camel has been in Fleetwood for a number of years, and no one really seems to know why it is there or how old it is.  Fortunately, camels have a very long lifespan of 40 to 50 years.

Mrs. Shelton, the drafting teacher here at Fleetwood Area High School, says, “I did not know a camel was here because I don’t live in Fleetwood, but when I saw it while on a trip to Boyer’s one morning, I had to do a double take because I didn’t believe it!”

The camel is sure an interesting twist to this suburban town, and it will always be enjoyed. What other small towns in Pennsylvania have a camel residing in them? This camel surely makes Fleetwood different.

Tyler Lance, a sophomore in the high school, agrees: “It is very awkward and irregular, but pretty sweet.”

M & M Mechanical, the apparent owners of the camel, refused to comment on the animal.  However, the camel’s Facebook page does indicate that it is bilingual.

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