The bold markings on monarch butterflies act as a warning to potential predators. To distinguish between male and female monarch butterflies, look for two distinctive black spots on the hind wings — these are scent glands and only present in males.
Leopard Tortoise
Unique to each individual, the markings on the aptly named leopard tortoise include black spots, blotches, and dashes covering their domed carapace.
Mountain Lion
Some species are born with spots that disappear as they age. As cubs, mountain lions are covered with dark spots to help them blend into their surroundings for protection. Their spots usually fade around the age of 6 to 9 months, when cubs start learning to hunt.
Comparing Spotted Cats
JAGUAR
Jaguars have larger, rose-shaped markings on their backs called rosettes. On a jaguar, these rosettes have smaller, solid spots in the center. Their head, lower limbs, and belly are covered in smaller, solid spots.
Giraffe
Spots on a giraffe differ between subspecies and no two giraffe will have the same coat markings. Their spots (or patches) also likely help to camouflage the giraffe, allowing them to blend in against the savanna.
Helmeted Guineafowl
Though the spots or speckles covering the helmeted guineafowl’s body are clearly visible up close, they appear mottled from far away and likely serve as a form of camouflage amid their savanna or shrub surroundings.
AMUR LEOPARD
Leopards also have rosettes on their backs. However, leopards’ rosettes lack the small, solid spots in the center.
Gila Monster
The venomous Gila monster delivers an extremely painful bite. Vibrant spots or blotches of orange, yellow, or pink stand out against their black bodies, likely warning other animals to stay away.
CHEETAH
While jaguars and leopards have rosettes, cheetahs have smaller, solid spots covering their entire body — eventually merging into stripes or rings around the tail.
WILDFILE
Welcome to the Pack
Meet Soleil Ellen, a three-year-old female Mexican grey wolf. After giving Soleil Ellen some time alone on habitat, she was introduced slowly to our two males, Paul Newman and Drew Hudson, in mid-March. Since then, the three wolves have been getting to know each other and enjoying their new pack. Currently, there is not a breeding recommendation for our wolves, so the three will live together as companions.
Rhino Procedure Success
On May 5, an expert team of veterinary and animal care professionals successfully completed a diagnostic exam on Nia, the nearly 5-year-old black rhino. The goal was to learn more about a chronic, intermittent wound in the tissue under her jaw that has been present since before her arrival at The Living Desert in October 2021. This detailed diagnostic exam was required to determine the cause and develop an effective treatment plan. The team is waiting for results from several diagnostic tests and are continuing to flush the wound site daily. Nia will continue a round of long-term antibiotics and the area has been swabbed for another bacterial culture. Nia is doing well and continues to train with her animal care keepers.
Soleil Ellen, the Mexican Wolf
Nia
Kids
Keep cool
How do these critters stay cool in the desert heat? Match each animal to its warm weather behavior or adaptation, then find the animal names in the word search. Kids may need help from a parent, this is a challenging puzzle!
1 Small African mammal with thin fur that lies belly-down on a cool rock
2 Spotted African canine with large ears to dispel heat
3 North American reptile that spends months underground, living off fat stores in its tail
4 African megafauna that wallows in the mud
5 Horned African antelope with light colored coat to reflect the sun
6 Bird that uses a form of panting that involves “fluttering” the throat muscles and rapid breathing
7 Venomous North American reptile that slithers to a shady spot
8 Tiny bird that can slow metabolic functions and lower body temperature at night in a process called “torpor”
47900 Portola Ave. Palm Desert, CA 92260
JOIN OUR HERD
We want to thank all of our new and renewing members who have supported us this past season. Year after year, your membership provides The Living Desert with a reliable and renewable source of support. You help give our animals and gardens the best possible care and help support our mission of desert conservation through preservation, education, and appreciation.
Observing some of the world’s endangered desert plants and animals in a natural setting is truly a unique experience. In the coming season, we hope you can enjoy the many valuable member benefits that come with being a member of The Living Desert.
