Nine-Inch Snails

Giant African snails have been spotted in Florida, specifically in the Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The snails, which can grow up to 9 inches in shell length, are considered an invasive species and can cause significant damage to plants and crops. They are native to Africa and are known to carry a parasitic rat lungworm that can infect humans and other animals. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is urging residents to report any sightings of the snails. The snails are typically brown or yellowish-brown in color, with a distinctive shell shape and a long, pointed snout. They are most active at night and can be found in gardens, parks, and other areas with dense vegetation. The Department of Agriculture is working to control the population and prevent further spread of the invasive species.