Botanical Nerd Word: Epizoochory

Burs stuck to a flannel shirt

Epizoochory: The inadvertent dispersal of seeds on the outside of animals.

Dog owners are well aware of the dreaded burs that become entangled in their dog’s fur during a walk. Many plants have developed special adaptations, such as the tiny hooks on burs, which allow their seeds or fruits to hitch a ride in animal fur. Happily for these plants, the technique works just as well on human clothing!