How do animals like the Gila monster survive in the Sonoran Desert?
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Animals like the Gila monster survive in the Sonoran Desert by burrowing underground to escape extreme heat.
The Gila monster, a venomous lizard native to the Sonoran Desert, survives the desert’s harsh conditions by burrowing underground. This burrowing behavior allows the Gila monster to stay cool during the intense desert heat, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. By remaining in burrows, it also conserves moisture and energy. The Gila monster is primarily nocturnal, foraging at night when temperatures are more moderate. Its ability to store fat for long periods further enables it to survive through dry spells and temperature extremes.