Snails

Snails are small, soft creatures that carry a spiral shell on their backs. They are found all over the world in gardens, forests, and even the ocean. Snails move by gliding on a single muscular foot. They leave a slimy trail of mucus wherever they go.

Slow and Steady

Snails are some of the slowest creatures on Earth. A garden snail moves at about 0.03 miles per hour. The mucus trail they leave behind helps them slide over rough surfaces. It is so effective that a snail can crawl over a razor blade without getting cut.

Inside the Shell

A snail's shell is its home and protection. When danger comes, the snail pulls its whole body inside. The shell grows along with the snail, adding new layers in a spiral pattern. Snails have tiny teeth on a ribbon-like tongue called a radula.

Fun Facts

• Garden snails can have up to 14,000 teeth.
• Some snails can sleep for up to 3 years.
• The giant African land snail can grow up to 12 inches long.

Did You Know?

Snail slime is being studied by scientists for use in medicine. It contains proteins that may help heal wounds and repair skin!