i got my official wildlife welcome from the city of montreal today. while walking through the woods along the side of mount royal, i brushed- only brushed, my leg against some foliage. at first i was convinced that i'd actually cut myself, the pain was that sharp. given that sharp objects in the urban woods are not known for their hygienic qualities, it seemed that a tetanus shot was in my future.
but no. it was this bastard, worldwide scourge of uncovered skin. i've never encountered its prickly paws before and let me tell you, i'm going to take care not to again. over five hours later, my leg still feels like it was recently sandpapered.
it seems a bit of an overreaction that i get something that hurts for so long, as i'm fairly certain i left the plant in tact. then again, i guess it's better than having to get a tetanus shot.