Ridgefield has lost a cherished member of its community. Sheik, the beloved camel who captured the hearts of thousands, has passed away. His owner, Robb Heering of One Hump Farm, shared the heartbreaking news, reflecting on Sheik’s extraordinary life and the joy he brought to so many.
"I am heartbroken and saddened to report that Sheik, our beloved pet camel, has died," Robb wrote. "I rescued Sheik more than 10 years ago from an abusive traveling petting zoo. When Sheik was just eight months old, my family and I bottle-fed him for seven months and saved him from a miserable life, giving him a beautiful one."
Sheik, a dromedary (Arabian) camel, quickly became a local celebrity, adored for his gentle demeanor and love of visitors. Ridgefielders were even invited to celebrate his 5th birthday—a testament to the special place he held in the community.
Sadly, Sheik’s life was cut short by a rare meningeal parasite, contracted after ingesting a slug carrying the parasite from a white-tailed deer. "Sheik fell to a sitting position in the paddock on November 22, 2024," Robb explained. "Despite intensive treatment and consultations with camel veterinarians worldwide, we were unable to save him."
For months since taking ill, Robb has hand-fed Sheik his favorite treats—pitted dates, carrots, and bananas. "Sheik was not only a local celebrity; he was a fixture in my life and my best nonhuman friend by far. He was big, beautiful, majestic, powerful, loyal, trusting, and loving. I always thought Sheik would be here for decades to come."
Although Sheik is gone, his legacy will endure. One Hump Farm remains dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of at-risk and abused camels, llamas, and alpacas—an effort that will now continue in Sheik’s honor.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Robb, Stephanie, and the entire Heering family. May Sheik’s memory and the joy he brought to so many live on forever.
Visit One Hump Farm on Facebook to learn more about their ongoing rescue efforts.
*Image courtesy One Hump Farm Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/onehump