Poison Ivy 101

A few years ago, Mr. Nature Geek wrote a post about the "Do-Nothing-Killer," poison ivy. With spring having finally sprung and baby poison ivy leaves beginning to grow, this week I thought I would share two videos about this vilified plant to help you avoid this plant's famous itch.

First off, an introduction to poison ivy. Why does poison ivy make us itch? How do you treat a poison ivy rash? Can someone truly be immune? Why should poison ivy be allowed to grow in natural areas? Find out! 

**Warning: this video contains graphic images of poison ivy rashes and blisters**

Now that you know a bit more about poison ivy, how can you avoid it? The best way is to learn how to identify it, which isn't always as easy as it seems. 

Poison ivy may be tricky in all its shapes, sizes in forms which can make it hard to avoid, but the plant is still worth keeping around for the benefits it provides wildlife. So this spring, be on the lookout with your new identification knowledge and stay rash-free!

The Courtship of Geekus naturus

In past blog entries, I've talked about all sorts of different animal mating rituals and systems. I've talked about how animals win each other over in one way or another, females kicking butt, and even some rather intimate details on animal sex. But today, I want to talk about the rather courtship of the species Geekus naturus.

Geekus naturus is a monogamous species, who sought out a potential mate that could demonstrate measurable geekery and humorous wit. In order to find this mate, she searched among a population of Geekus biologica. There, she came across this fine specimen:

This individual impressed the Geekus naturus with his geeky knowledge, humor, and of course other qualities such as ability to forage for food...

Here we see him collecting Rangia cuneata (wedge clams) to present to the Geekus naturus 

in order to win her affections and aid in her research in 2003.

perform impressive non-aggressive physical displays...

wrestle alligators...

(You tell that lizard he's not an alligator. We didn't want to hurt his feelings)

and demonstrate nurturing, fatherly qualities.

After a long courtship, this specimen, dubbed Geekus naturus v. mr. banded the Geekus naturus (v. the), solidifying their monogamous relationship.

On April 12, Geekus naturus v. mr. and Geekus naturus v. the shall proclaim their devotion to each other in front of a gathering of others of their species and live geekily ever after. 

See you after the honeymoon!