Fauna of the Libyan Desert
Species list
Arthropoda (arthropods)
Arachnida (spiders, scorpions, solifugids & ticks)
Arachnids are represented by relatively few observed species in the Libyan desert. Contrary to popular belief, they are seen very rarely, during ten years of observation only a handful of individuals of each species were noted. This is attributable to their nocturnal activity, in daylight they remain hidden under rocks or the interior of plants.
Insecta (insects)
Insects are the most abundant species, appearing even in those areas of the desert where no other life forms exist.
Vertebrata (vertebrates)
Reptilia (reptiles)
Reptiles are relatively scarce, only four species were noted. Their range is wide, some have been noted in areas with no vegetation.
Aves (birds)
Birds are commonly seen throughout the Libyan Desert, however only a few species are resident, the majority migratory, as attested by the numerous mummified remains.
Mammalia (mammals)
Mammals are very scarce, and represented by a handful of species. The range of the large herbivores is restricted to the large massifs of the central Libyan Desert, which support permanent vegetation, and their population is under extreme pressure from indiscriminate hunting.
