Expert Tips for Finding Sources of Water in the Desert
Expert Tips for Finding Sources of Water in the Desert

Expert Tips for , Finding Sources of Water, in the Desert.

Insider reports that when trying to survive in an arid environment, it is important to know where the most likely sources of water are hiding.

The Phoenix Fire Department's desert survival tips suggest looking for trees such as cottonwoods, sycamores, willows or tamarisks.

While some cacti species can have toxic sap or a bitter taste that makes them unsuitable, the prickly pear cactus is edible.

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According to the University of Nevada, Reno, you should wear leather or rubber gloves and use tongs to harvest a prickly pear cactus.

Burning the fruit over an open flame can remove the thorns, and once cooled, the cactus can be peeled to reveal a fleshy fruit similar to a melon or kiwi.

Burning the fruit over an open flame can remove the thorns, and once cooled, the cactus can be peeled to reveal a fleshy fruit similar to a melon or kiwi.

Insider reports that insects, birds and mammals tend to congregate near water sources.

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Even dry river beds can be hiding water.

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Experts recommend looking for a bend and then digging three to six feet down to find hidden troves of water.

Tarps, shoes, bottles and a variety of other receptacles can be used as make-shift water-collecting devices.

Good spots to set up water collectors are found in canyon basins, valleys and other places where water can flow downhill.