Occasional Invaders
Snail Identification and Property Tips
| Apr 22, 2022
Photograph of two snails with coiled shells on a branch.
Land snails have a visible shell and can occur in damp garden areas. A snail in the landscape is not automatically a problem; the decision to act should depend on identification and actual plant damage.
Identification and habits
Feeding can leave irregular holes in tender leaves and other plant tissue, sometimes with a slime trail nearby. Snails shelter in protected, moist places. Checking the damaged area after dark can help distinguish their activity from insects feeding on the same plants.
What to do at your property
Photograph the animal and damage before selecting a control. Remove unnecessary hiding debris and avoid keeping areas wetter than plants require. Discuss persistent damage with a suitable plant or pest professional. Any bait must be labeled for the site and used according to its precautions; keep it away from children and pets as directed.
Photograph the pest clearly and note where and when it appeared. Ask Plank about identification and whether inspection, prevention or selected treatment is appropriate. The service scope and any follow-up are confirmed for your property.
Reference: University of California IPM: snails and slugs.
Request a free estimate or call 573-368-3333. Browse our service areas for nearby communities.