THE latest arrival at Knowsley Safari Park, which belongs to a critically endangered species of camel, has been melting the hearts of staff.

The tiny Bactrian camel, whose wild family is native to central Asia, was born in the early hours of Sunday, April 9.

The baby and mum Gertie are described as doing well and keepers at the park plan on letting the public name the baby.

The wild Bactrian camel is classified as 'critically Endangered' with less than 1000 estimated to be left in the plains of China and Mongolia.

Only a small isolated population is left in the Gashun Gobi and Gobi deserts with the camel dependent on these remnant herds and its unique desert ecosystem, which the Wild Camel Protection Foundation is striving to save by establishing with Chinese government support, protected areas and a breeding centre.

Knowsley Safari Park staff will run activities this summer to raise money for the Wild Camel Protection Foundation to assist work being carried out in Mongolia.

Eveline de Wolf, head of animal collection at the safari park, said: “Conservation of species is the cornerstone of everything we do at Knowsley, so this new arrival is especially welcome.

“Our camels at Knowsley are classed as Domestic Bactrian Camels and our aim is to raise awareness for the plight of their wild cousins through events and visitor education.

“Gertie is a new mum so our expert animal team are keeping a close eye on how she's getting on with her first calf.

"She’s seems to have really taken to motherhood and the new baby is already melting hearts with everyone. We’re drawing up a shortlist of names which we are looking forward to seeing which the public decide.”

Bridget Murray, conservation officer, added: "We have now determined that our camel baby is male and we'll be releasing our shortlist of names for fans to choose from soon!

"Gertie's mothering instincts are excellent, especially considering the little one is her first calf.

"He's getting on really well and has even started to run behind the rest of his family now for food but, like a human baby, he needs lots of sleep so still likes a good afternoon nap!"