Camels' toes and puffy foot pads — For 5-year-olds

Camels walk on two big toes on each foot. Between those toes there is a wide, soft pad that puffs out when they step. This puffed pad spreads the camel's weight so the camel does not sink into the soft sand.

• Two big toes: each foot has two big toes, not many little toes.
• Puffy pad: the soft pad opens and touches the sand like a big flat shoe.
• Spreads the weight: because the foot is wider, the camel floats on top of the sand instead of sinking in.

Try this fun game: spread your fingers wide and press your hand into a pillow or some sand. Then curl your fingers and press again. When your hand is wide it does not sink as much. Camels do the same with their toes and puffy pad!

That is why camels can walk easily in the hot, sandy desert.