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Animals Found in Desert Habitat

A desert is a region that can be hot or cold and receives very little rainfall. Most desert animals have developed an array of physiological and behavioral modifications to deal with extreme temperatures, lack of water and potential predators. The dromedary camel, fennec fox, ostrich and the addax antelope are some animals that thrive in a desert habitat.

Dromedary Camel
- The dromedary camel is suited to a hot desert climate.
  
  The dromedary camel is found in the hot deserts of North Africa and the Middle East. They have one hump on their back that stores up to 80 lbs. of fat. Camels break this down into water and energy when traveling long distances. Their eyes are protected from the elements by two rows of eyelashes and thick eyebrows, and they can close their nostrils to keep sand out. Camels have strong padded feet for walking on rough terrain. Their tough lips enable them to eat thorny vegetation.
Fennec Fox
- The fennec fox inhabits the Sahara Desert region of northern Africa. It's the smallest member of the fox family. The fennec fox has many physical features which enable desert survival including large, bat-like ears that radiate body heat to keep them cool. Their long, thick coat provides insulation on cold nights as well as protecting them from the hot sun during the day. Fennec foxes have furry feet that protect them against the hot sand.
Ostrich
- Ostriches are found in North African desert lands.
  
  The ostrich is the world's largest bird, ranging in weight from 220 to 350 lbs. (100 to 160 kilograms). Ostriches can be found in North African desert habitats. They cannot fly but are extremely fast high-endurance runners. Ostriches possess powerful legs and clawed feet capable of killing large predators. When threatened, ostriches will press their necks into the ground to appear less visible. Ostriches feed on roots, seeds, insects, lizards and plants from which they derive most of their water.
Addax Antelope
- The addax antelope inhabits the Sahara Desert.
  
  The addax antelope inhabits both sandy and stony regions of the Sahara Desert. It is sometimes called the "screw horn antelope" due it its twisted horns. The addax antelope's diet consists mainly of desert grasses and plants. It rarely drinks, getting most of its water requirements from the food it eats and from dew. Their large flat hooves enables them to walk on soft sand without sinking. The addax is a nocturnal animal that rests during the day away from the hot sun and wind. Addax antelopes are listed as critically endangered mammals and are facing possible extinction.

Animals & Science