Desert
Low desert ecosystems are found below 4,200 feet. The small section of the park that encompasses this ecosystem receives around 14 - 15 inches of annual precipitation. The Watchman Trail, near the visitor center, is an example of desert habitat. Plant species include creosote bush, blackbrush, and salt bush. Birds common to this habitat are the greater roadrunner, black-throated sparrow, and black-chinned sparrow.
Birds that live in the desert are adapted to high temperatures. They are most active around dawn, when it is cooler, and tend to perch in shady areas. In order to dissipate heat, birds can use a process called Gular fluttering, which is the rapid flapping of membranes in the throat to increase evaporation. Additionally, feathers can help insulate birds from the heat of the sun, and the birds can often obtain all of the moisture that they need from their food.