The Changing Role of Camels among the Bedouin of the Negev

Traditionally, Negev Bedouin depended on semi-nomadic pastoralism for their livelihood and were always associated with camels. Camels were used as pack animals, for transportation, and for plowing. These functions have recently been replaced by motorized vehicles. Urbanization changed Bedouin societies and presently there is much less need and space available to maintain camels. While the number of camels increased worldwide, mainly because of meat and milk production, the number of camels among Negev Bedouin decreased. They rarely eat camel meat and milk production is on a small scale, mostly unofficial. Most, particular younger Bedouin, believe that they are less identified with camels than with sheep and goats. All, however, expressed their desire to maintain camels for traditional reasons, but complained that it is difficult to do so due to a lack of grazing lands, government indifference, and tax laws concerning camels.