| California travel expert Veronica Hill of www.CaliforniaTravelExpert.com offers a guide to desert animals at the Living Desert in this episode of "California Travel Tips." The Living Desert zoo in Palm Desert is home to some of the most common desert animals found in North America. Plan on at least a full day to enjoy this gorgeous 1200 acre park. You'll spot a large number of animals founds here in our California desert, from the adorable bobcat and crafty coyote, to the majestic mountain lion. Be sure to arrive early in the morning if you want to see the animals in action. By mid-day, many have retired to their burrows for a nap and reprieve from the intense desert heat. A highlight for me was a glimpse at two endangered species — the desert bighorn sheep, found in the rocky mountains of California, and the gorgeous Mexican wolf, once found throughout the Southwest. This is also one of the few places where you'll find the rare and tiny desert pupfish, which can survive in waters over 100 degrees. If you're into birdwatching, this is a great place to see some beautiful desert birds up close, from the roadrunner and hummingbird to the golden eagle and Great Horned Owl. Look up in the sky and you may spot a Harris Hawk coming down for a landing. I hope you've enjoyed this quick look at the animals of the Living Desert. Just don't forget to dress for the hot Palm Springs weather, bringing along plenty of water, sunscreen, and — of course!— a camera. The Living Desert 47-900 ... |
