Desert Survival Skills: How to Find Water and Survive
Deserts cover about 20% of the Earth’s surface, and are known for their arid conditions and severe water shortages. Faced with a water shortage, getting lost in the desert can be a life-or-death challenge. However, mastering the following water-finding skills can increase your chances of survival and overcoming this harsh situation.
Find Water from Plants: Temporary Water Supply
1. Cactus
Cactus is one of the important sources of water in the desert. Round, succulent, and moderately tall cacti often contain a lot of water. The way to get water from a cactus is very simple:
– Choosing a cactus: Look for cacti that are round and succulent.
– Cutting and extracting: Cut across the stem, use a stick or stick to crush the inside. You will get a jelly-like slime that can be eaten or drunk to quench your thirst.
– Squeeze the juice: Cut the core of the cactus into small pieces, wrap it in a clean cloth and squeeze to get the juice.
2. Welwitschia
Welwitschia is an ancient gymnosperm with a lifespan of more than 2,000 years. The most concentrated water is near the roots. To get the water, you can crush the roots and squeeze the juice to drink.
3. Prickly Pear
Prickly pear, a member of the cactus family, has fruit that contains water and can be used as a drink. However, you need to be careful with the thorns on the tree to avoid injury.
Other Water Finding Skills: Observing and Analyzing the Environment
1. Bird Observation
According to the experience of Saharan natives, birds often fly quickly and straight to places with water. On the contrary, when flying from places with water, birds often fly heavily and often have to stop to rest. Observing bird behavior can help you determine the direction of water.
2. Look for Signal Plants
Certain plants such as saltgrass, date palms, cottonwoods, and willows often grow in areas where underground water sources are found, usually 2-3 meters below the surface. Looking for these plants can point you to a water source.
3. Explore Dry Riverbeds
Although riverbeds and creeks may appear dry, there is still water underneath. Dig down about 1-2 meters to find water.
4. Follow Animal Tracks
Animal tracks in the desert can lead you to water. Follow and follow the tracks to find a nearby water source.
5. Look for Turtles
If you see a turtle, it is a sure sign that there is water nearby. Turtles often live near bodies of water.
Finding water in the desert requires careful observation and understanding of the surrounding environment. Mastering the skills of finding water from plants and observing environmental signs can help you survive in the harshest conditions. Always remember, water is the most important resource and the key to overcoming the challenges of the desert.
