Foxtail

Setaria viridis

A very common, non-native weed, this annual grass is a relative of millet, a grain widely grown for animal fodder and for human consumption.  The seed head (the “foxtail” itself) dries when it’s mature, and breaks up into seed clusters that have pointed and barbed ends, designed for seed dispersal. Such a cluster can be picked up by a dog’s or cat’s coat, and can then work its way into the animal’s skin, causing serious problems. In areas where foxtails are numerous, special masks are available to prevent these seeds from getting into dogs’ noses, mouths, eyes, or ears.