deserts

It might seem that very few things can survive in the desert. Most plants and animals that you see in your town probably wouldn’t. But there are many different types of plants and animals that are perfectly suited to the hot, dry climate.

In the desert, there is very little water. The plants and animals that live in the desert have special features for living with little water. Plants like the cactus have short leaves. These leaves trap and store water. The cactus also has spines on its leaves. This is to keep animals from taking its water.

Animals that live in the desert are often nocturnal. This means they sleep during the day. They come out to eat at night when it is cool. Other animals, like the camel, are awake during the heat of the day. They have special eyelashes that keep the sand out of their eyes. They have nostrils that can close to keep the sand out of their noses. They can go for many days without drinking. Many animals that live in the desert can get all the water they need from the foods they eat.