Book 16, Question 95
How Do Desert Animals Keep Sand Out of Their Eyes and Noses?
Desert animals keep sand out of their eyes and noses with built-in goggles and filters! Nature gave them special eyelids, eyelashes, and nostrils, all made for blowing sand. These protect the delicate eyes and breathing tubes from blowing sand.
More fun facts
- Camels have double rows of extra long eyelashes that help keep sand out of their eyes.
- Research suggests the best eyelash length is about one third of the width of the eye, and camels have big eyes, so their lashes are long.
- Camels also have bushy eyebrows that block sand and dirt.
- If sand gets in anyway, a clear third eyelid sweeps it out like a windshield wiper.
- This thin third eyelid still lets in enough light for the camel to see during a sandstorm.
- Camels can close their nostrils all the way to keep sand out of their noses.
Sources: animals.sandiegozoo.org, Natural History Museum, London
Questions kids ask
Do other animals have a third eyelid?
Yes. Cats, seals, birds, and reptiles also have a working third eyelid.