Do any animals eat the Ocotillo?

While the Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) is a prickly and tough plant, there are some animals that do eat it, at least parts of it:

* Insects: Ocotillo is a food source for various insects, including the Ocotillo Moth (Schinia trifascia), which lays its eggs on the plant. The caterpillars then feed on the leaves and flowers.

* Rodents: Some rodents, like the desert woodrat, have been observed to eat the Ocotillo's stems and seeds.

* Birds: While not eating the plant directly, birds like Gila Woodpeckers and Gila Sparrows will often use the Ocotillo's spiny stems to build their nests, making it a valuable habitat resource.

However, the Ocotillo's spines and the plant's overall toughness make it less palatable for larger herbivores like deer or cattle. These animals might nibble on young shoots or leaves occasionally, but the Ocotillo isn't a major part of their diet.

It's important to note that while some animals eat parts of the Ocotillo, it's not a primary food source for most. The plant's adaptations, such as its spines and tough structure, help it resist being eaten by larger herbivores.