The phrase "leaves of three, let it be" helps people identify and avoid poison ivy. This woody vine creeps across the ground and often climbs, sometimes growing branches that look like part of a tree. Thick, older vines appear hairy because they have lots of aerial roots.

An oil called urushiol is responsible for the rash that results from touching any part of the plant, regardless of the time of year. Smoke from burning poison ivy is also potent, potentially causing lung inflammation in those who breathe it. Urushiol can even spread to your skin by petting a cat or dog that has been in poison ivy or touching contaminated shoes or clothing. The chemical can persist for months and even years.

In case of skin contact, immediately wash with rubbing alcohol or soap and cold water. Skin absorbs the oil in about 15 minutes. Don't use hot water - it can open your pores, allowing urushiol to penetrate more readily. Allergic rashes can develop within hours or a few days, but blister fluids do not spread poison ivy to other areas.

As much as you may fear getting poison ivy, don't be too quick to get rid of this plant in your yard. Many gamebirds, songbirds and mammals eat poison ivy berries, which ripen in the fall and persist into the winter, when other foods are scarce. Besides, leaving poison ivy alone seems like the best way to avoid getting it.

WILD Facts is a regular feature written by Linda May, a wildlife interpretive specialist with the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division.