Welcome to the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, a subtropical desert that stretches for miles. It's known for hosting many interesting species of plants and animals. 🌵 This cholla cactus is common to deserts in the Southwestern U.S. Sometimes called a "jumping cholla," pieces of the plant have a habit of transferring to nearby skin or clothing. Although cholla doesn't really jump, its sharp spines effectively ward off hungry animals. ⚔️ Nestled within the arms of a cholla cactus, baby curve-billed thrashers huddle safely in their nest. The plant provides them protection and shade as they grow. 🐦 Here, ASU researcher Karla Moeller moves closer to a Gila monster. Moeller studies these colorful, venomous lizards to help us understand how they survive in the hot, dry desert climate. ☀️ In this desert wash, another animal is hiding just out of sight. A northern black-tail rattlesnake can be spotted near the sides. Did you know that this snake only eats once every two weeks? 🐍 Tap the link...