Who Can Take The Heat?
The desert is one of the most unforgiving environments on the planet. Scorching days give way to freezing nights, and there's hardly any water. Yet, some animals have adapted spectacularly not just to survive there, but to thrive. Here are five incredible animals that can survive in the desert.
1. Camel
Camels are perhaps the animal best-adapted to the desert. They store fat in their humps, which allows them to go for long periods without water, and have wide, flat feet that enable them to walk effortlessly on sand.
2. Meerkat
The dark patches around a meerkat's eyes aren't there just to look cute; they reduce sun glare. They also have built-in thermoregulation and ears that can close to prevent black sand from entering.
3. Sand Cat
The sand cat is equipped with numerous adaptations that allow it to withstand the harsh desert environment. Its furry paws protect it from hot and cold sand, its thick coat provides insulation and camouflage, and it has extremely low water needs.
4. Lion
Lions can withstand the unforgiving desert of Sub-Saharan Africa thanks to their many adaptations. They don't require much water to survive, have a leisurely lifestyle, and broad, furry paws that allow them to walk on sand.
5. Gila Monster
The Gila Monster is a type of lizard that's adapted to thrive in the desert. It spends most of its time underground and is equipped with thick skin that protects it from the elements, and it stores fat in its tail, allowing it to go a long time without water or food.
