Backyard and Beyond

Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.

As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”

Don’t Hug This One

Word to the wise: the thick, hairy vine running up this big Tuliptree is Poison Ivy.

mthew

3 responses to “Don’t Hug This One”

  1. nature969

    Goats like to eat the poison ivy, but they won’t touch English ivy.

    Reply
    1. Charles McAlexander

      It is my understanding that the toxins inplants are largely created to discourage being eaten. It nseems to work for a while, then the consumer adapts tot he toxin. Personally, I hsve not only adapted to, but am addicted to
      the capsasin in chili peppers. It’s time for them to create a new chemical agent to keep me away.

      Reply
  2. Chuck McAlexander

    I have yet to contract poison ivy and intend to keep it that way. Being from the west, California, I had numerous encounters with poison oak. I nearly hospitalized me more than once. Some of the “cures” tried on me as a child were worse than the exposure to the toxin. I suggest you take Mr. Wills advice.

    Reply

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