#ngscience.com #sonoran #adaptations
Learn about plant and animal adaptations to living in deserts in this virtual field trip to the Sonoran Desert.
Today we're taking a virtual field trip to the spectacular Sonoran desert.
The Sonoran desert is in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It covers an area of about 260,000 square kilometres.
The Sonoran desert has an arid climate with hot daytime temperatures and little rainfall. Plants and animals that inhabit the desert have adaptations that allow them to survive in the harsh environment.
Some animals in the Sonoran desert, such as the kangaroo rat and Great Horned Owl, are nocturnal to avoid the heat of the day. Other animals, such as the Gila monster, have a long tongue with which to gather moisture from leaves and other surfaces. The javelina, have a thick coat of fur to protect them from the heat. Some animals like the sidewinder rattlesnake have specialized scales that allow them to move across sand without sinking in too deeply.
If you're lucky, you'll also spot roadrunners, gila woodpeckers and the endangered Mexican gray wolf!
The plants in the Sonoran desert have adaptations that allow them to survive in their environment. They do this by having leaves that shade them from direct sunlight, by having a waxy coating on their leaves and stems that prevent water loss, and by being able to store water.
The saguaro cactus is a tree-like cactus that has many adaptations which allow it to survive in this harsh environment. Saguaro cacti are able to store large amounts of water in their thick stems. The stems are also covered in a waxy substance which helps to prevent water loss. Its leaves are in the shape of sharp spines that stop animals from getting to the precious water inside the stem.
Be sure to stay clear of the jumping cholla cactus. It doesn't really jump of course, but spiky leaves are REALLY sharp! Ouch!
If you get the chance, make sure you visit this amazing natural wonder in person. For now, see you on the next virtual field trip. Bye!
