Teddy Bear Cholla

Don't get too close!

Far from cuddly, the prickly teddy bear
cholla imbeds sharp, barbed spines into
anyone brushing by. Joints drop easily
to the ground and take root, sometimes
producing stands too large and dense
to walk through. The cactus wren takes
advantage of the profusion of spines and
builds her nest in the cholla's branches.

Echo Bay

Don't miss the rest of our virtual tour of Lake Mead National Recreation Area in 876 images.