Desert Symphony

Cholla cactus illuminated by a spectacular desert sunrise in Joshua

Tree National Park. Cholla cactus do amazing things when the light

hits them, so much so that I came back to the Joshua Tree Cactus

Garden three sunrises in a row. But they are also a risky subject.

Also called the jumping cactus, the slightest touch allows them to

hook into you with such tenacity it seems like they must have jumped

on you. I got one stuck in my leg and found you can't pull them out

with your hands. Seasoned Desert Rat, Larry Carpenter, came to the

rescue with a comb which he slotted behind the spiny ball and pried it

out of my flesh.

Anyway, this sunrise was one of those special outdoor experiences that

makes all your nerve endings buzz. I'm grateful to have had the chance

to experience it and record it.

Nice shot of a nice place. These fuzzy little cacti seem to catch that evening sun just great. I like it Sean.

Nice work

Regards Ferg 

The foreground is excellent with the contract color in the sky and the ground.  Learning.  Best regards,

Fantastic shot and great little story with it. Thanks for sharing.

A beautiful image indeed!

PS The black sea Urchin does the same thing with the slightest touch. An old wives tale indicates that warm uric acid will help remove the imbedded piece. Wonder if the same will work for this plant.