Camel autopsies reveal large plastic masses in stomachs

Researchers report that autopsies of camels in the United Arab Emirates found large clumps of plastic, called polybezoars, and the authors say these are linked to about 1% of camel deaths there.

Researchers report that autopsies of camels in the United Arab Emirates uncovered large clumps of plastic in the animals' digestive tracts. The paper was co-authored by California environmental scientist Marcus Eriksen and UAE veterinary microbiologist Ulrich Wernery. Eriksen described one autopsy as "the most surreal thing in the world." The authors identify these plastic clumps as polybezoars and link them to a measurable share of camel deaths in the UAE. Key findings: - Autopsies revealed compacted plastic clumps (polybezoars) inside camel stomachs and intestines. - The authors report polybezoars range in size from about a basketball to roughly a large suitcase and attribute them to roughly 1% of camel deaths in the UAE. - Researchers say camels may ingest plastic because items in their environment are mistaken for food. - The article notes similar land-animal cases, including a bear in Colorado and two elephants in Sri Lanka, where plastic was found in digestive systems. - The report places these findings in the wider context of rising public pressure for stronger regulation of plastic waste, citing past policy actions such as Canada’s 2021 single-use plastics ban. Summary: The reported discoveries point to a broader issue of terrestrial plastic pollution and its reported impacts on wildlife. Undetermined at this time.