Animal Adaptations to the Desert
Water Storage
Camels
Camels have humps to store fat which a camel can break down into water and energy when nourishment is not available
Rarely sweat
When they do take in water they can retain it for long periods of time
Loose little water through urination
Kangaroo Rats
Protection Against Predators
Kangaroo Rats
Large ears to be able to hear approaching predators
Large back legs that allow them to jump almost 3m to avoid predators
Get water from their seed diet
Heat Regulation
Light colored fur to reflect sun off of them
Long thick fur to keep them warm on cold nights but also protect them from sun rays during the day
Fennec foxes have bat-like ears to radiate body heat and keep them cool
Camels have a light, woolly coast that reflects the sun during the day and provides warmth during cold desert nights
Thick, cushioned foot soles to protect them from hot sand
Reptiles utilize scales to prevent water loss
Skin
Animals in the desert usually have thick skin, or skin with layers of keratin, lipid, or chitin, which reduces water permeability
Many animals in the desert are nocturnal which limits their exposure to sun
Its common for animals to not drink water but to just get their water from the food they eat
Dig deep burrows in the sand to stay cooler
Camouflage patterns
Burrows allow them to hide
Large fang like teeth
Long eyelashes to keep sun out of eyes