Desert Riddles for Sand-Savvy Explorers

I wave without water and tower in gold. The wind shapes me young, though I seem old.

I store water in humps and tread in the heat. Carry my cargo and skip a heartbeat.

I bloom in the night with petals so rare. In the desert's hush, I perfume the air.

I drip from the sky in a desert's dream. Touch me quick — I'm a rare gleam.

I glimmer ahead but vanish on cue. Chase me too long and I'll fool you.

I stand with arms raised guarding the sand. My needles warn you — keep your hand.

I hide under rocks to stay nice and cool. When the moon rises, I take a nocturnal stroll.

I trace hidden paths to find a spring. My dowsing curves do a watery thing.

I howl across canyons with a dusty scream. I sculpt cliffs sharp like a stony dream.

I flutter at dusk with silent wings. I sip cactus nectar — that's my thing.

I paint the horizon orange and red. Watch me glow where the sun makes its bed.

I burrow by day in a sandy flat. When night cools the air, I slip from my mat.

I crackle with heat but bring relief. Pitch me for shade to escape the grief.

I’m a trail of bones under blazing sky. Follow my path to see where travelers lie.

I sparkle at night with no city glow. Count my stars in the desert below.