Different Kinds of Animals in the Desert

It is a common misconception that life cannot be sustained in a desert environment. This is untrue, as many forms of life, including plants and animals, can thrive in this dry locale. Desert animals, in particular, have evolved over many years to retain the ability to survive and even thrive in a desert environment, despite a lack of available foods and water.

  1. Desert Hedgehog

    • This small, spiky desert denizen is native to Africa, Europe and Asia. They hibernate during the very hot summer months in desert environments. Their skin consists of spiky spines that are very stiff and very sharp. These hedgehogs can grow to about 14 inches long, are nocturnal and are prey for large birds that circle the desert in search of food sources. When predators attempt to attack, the desert hedgehog rolls into a ball of spikes that is difficult to penetrate. They eat most insects found in the desert, though they might also snack on mice, snakes and in some instances, even dead animals.

    Rattlesnake

    • Perhaps among the most well-known of desert animals, the rattlesnake is one of the most poisonous of the species overall. It is characterized by a rattle at the end of its tail, which is shakes when startled or threatened, and generally as a precursor to a strike. The rattlesnake is a carnivorous animal, feeding on just about any animal it can contend with, in terms of size. It uses its venom to dissolve the tissue of its prey so it can swallow it whole during the process of consumption. These snakes are characterized by the diamond shapes along its backside.

    Ostrich

    • One of the species of birds that cannot fly, the ostrich can grow up to 9 feet tall. Males of this species can weigh up to 350 lbs with a wing span of about 6 feet. They live in flocks of up to 40 birds, with an alpha male as the head of the flock. According to the DesertUSA website, the ostrich "is the fastest two-legged creature in the world." It primarily eats grass and insects, and in some instances, small animals. The ostrich is the largest bird in the world, according to the DesertUSA website, and is able to run up to 45 mph.