Alexander wrote: Most hardy Opuntias go in a flat position when winter arrives, in spring they go more upright again.
Alexander
That reminds me of something turtile said, when talking about the Opuntia humifusa. It was very cold in March 2007, and he said the Opuntia was still laying on it's side, or something like that.
Excellent link Phil
My Opuntia ficus (prickly pear) is still out unprotected and looks ok. It is half under the canopy of the Montezuma pine. The sun shines under there in winter.
The Opuntia ficus is to the right of the pic. The Cylindropuntia (foreground) that is less under the canopy has also been out as is, It looks a bit yellow but hopefully will green up when some warmth returns