10 Sahara Desert Animals Thriving in North Africa

Known as the "ship of the desert," the dromedary camel is the ultimate Sahara survivalist. With one hump storing fat (not water!), these mammals can go for long periods without a drink. They regulate body temperature and minimize water loss, making them desert endurance champions.

This small fox with oversized ears uses its big radar dishes to dissipate heat and detect prey scurrying under the sand. Found throughout the Sahara Desert and surrounding regions, the fennec fox is well adapted to arid conditions, hunting rodents and insects in the cool of the night.

The critically endangered addax antelope is like a ghost of the Sahara. With spiral horns and pale coats that reflect sunlight, these animals live in arid areas with little vegetation. They eat desert plants and can survive on dew alone when water is scarce.

This isn't your average bird. The North African ostrich, also known as the red-necked ostrich, is the largest living bird and can sprint up to 43 mph (70 km/h). These giant birds are native to northern Africa and form large flocks for safety and efficiency.

Need a superhero in the insect world? Meet the Saharan silver ant. These tiny speedsters only venture out in extreme heat when predators can't stand the scorching temperatures. Their reflective silver hairs help them stay cool and survive the desert oven.

Surprisingly, crocodiles live in the desert, too. The West African crocodile hides out in rock crevices and desert oases. During dry seasons, they enter a dormant state called aestivation, biding their time until water returns.

This graceful antelope is another critically endangered species. Dama gazelles are adapted to extreme terrain, staying hydrated with moisture from desert vegetation and dew. Habitat destruction and hunting are major threats to their survival.

This tiny bird thrives in the dry savanna regions bordering the Sahara by forming large flocks and nesting near trees or shrubs. It's a classic example of how even desert animals need some greenery. African silverbills eat seeds from grasses and are known for their soft chirps.

With a name as fiery as its plumage, this bird this bird inhabits various regions across Africa, including savannas and open woodlands. It survives by feeding on seeds and small insects, often nesting in rock crevices to escape the brutal sun.

Several species of snakes and lizards make the Sahara their home. These cold-blooded creatures use the sand and rocks to regulate their temperature. Some, like venomous species of vipers, are nocturnal and ambush prey after dark.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.