Milch camels refers to camels that are giving milk for their young. See Good News Translation “milk camels.” These are camels that have given birth and are still suckling their young. It may be necessary to show their condition in the translation. For example, Bible en français courant says “30 camels that suckle their young,” Biblia Dios Habla Hoy “30 camels having recently given birth.”

Colts is the proper English term for young camels. However, this word is more familiarly used to designate young horses. Hence most modern English versions say “their young.” It will be noted that no male camels are included.

Cows … bulls: this is the first use of these terms in Genesis. “Cattle” has been used as a general term for these and includes other domestic animals. The bulls in our verse are not castrated and so are not what are referred to as “oxen,” “bullocks,” or “steers.” They are therefore able to mate with the cows. In areas where cows and bulls are not raised, they are often known. However, where they are unknown, it may be necessary to borrow a word from a larger language.

For she-asses and he-asses see 12.16.

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .