I sure that most people that live in the desert are aware of the jumping cactus.I'm not sure what the true name of the plant is.instead of having. Large oval leaves it has small round balls attached in clusters.they are are are not tightly knit and if you come close the electricity in your skin will allow a cactus ball or two to jump on you you body.Don't try to take it off with your hand, it will jump to your hand..use a couple of twigs to get it off.the thorns are large, maybe one inch and it is very painful.the pain could last one night.p.s. this is not a joke

Check out the last picture on the page.
http://www.in-the-desert.com/vallecito2.html

Two years later, you can still see the marks. Mind you, the experts will melt down on you if you repeat the old wives tale that they actually jump.

Most who plays in the desert around cholla soon learns the benefits of being cautious.
That being said, I usually get splined several times during most years.
I keep readily available (top pocket of my pack) a small kit for removing cholla splines.
While cholla balls can’t jump, I’ve seen them get airborne in a strong gust of wind.
Flying cholla balls will make a coward out of most people.
I’m no exception.

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=1485&p=13217&hilit=cholla#p13217

TradClimber

.. .I'm glad you both replied on this subject.I'm a treasure hunter, I'm in the treasure section of this network.what I worry about are toddlers they are small.