Daylong sun and rainless months govern the life of drylands. The wildlife that lives in deserts and short grass prairies must cope with blistering summer heat, frigid winters, frequent high winds, and, always, little water to drink. Yet, many insects, mammals, reptiles, and birds have learned to seek shade and shelter, to find moisture in what they eat, and to populate these places that are far from being wastelands - no matter how empty they may appear to be.