Jumping Cholla

Description:

Pronounced as Choy-a.
One of the most dangerous of the desert cactus. Though these don't really jump, segments can break off easily and attach to almost anything that brushes up against it. They also fall off on their own and may get blown around to settle and take root. Some bird, mammal and reptile species use these plants to their advantage and make it their secure home from predators. Each spine has very strong fine barbs that go in different directions to penetrate and attach and makes it difficult to remove.

Habitat:

Found in the South western states of Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. Also found in parts of southeastern California. These were found in the lower mountain range and flats.

Notes:

These are most dangerous when they penetrate skin or vehicle tires. The last photo was not planned. I pointed out that someone had one stuck to their shoe and next thing the rest all got them including me. One of our vehicles had some stuck to our tire and I was too busy trying to pull the spines out then to take a picture. But mostly we couldn't get them out, only could break them off. That is why you have to becareful driving near these. You don't want to have to change a tire in the desert. In the photo of the whole cactus you can see small segments that fall from the cactus. We nicknamed them Tribbles