Snails are interesting creatures! They mosey along at a pace we cannot even comprehend. They seem in no hurry at all, yet they are on an incredible journey.
Snails come in a variety of species, sizes and colors. All of my photos were taken in the forest in which I live.
A snail’s shell is comprised of 3 layers. Grok says this about the composition of them:
Snail shells in Washington State, whether terrestrial, freshwater, or marine, are primarily composed of calcium carbonate (usually in the form of aragonite or calcite) with a small amount of organic material, such as the protein conchiolin. The shell consists of three main layers:
• Periostracum: A thin, organic outer layer made of conchiolin, which protects against abrasion and environmental damage.
• Prismatic layer: A calcified middle layer of densely packed calcium carbonate crystals, providing strength.
• Nacre (pearly layer): An inner layer of calcium carbonate in a smooth, iridescent form, adding resilience.
The mantle, a specialized tissue, secretes these materials to form and grow the shell. Snails require a diet rich in calcium to support shell development, often consuming calcium-rich foods like egg casings, plants, or minerals in their environment.
So while they move slow, they are seeking out the much needed minerals to produce those lovely shells!
I’ve rescued many a snail from the trail where foot traffic, car/truck tires can crush them, and moved them to safer ground. Even in the road on the way up to the trailheads, they move so slowly, they’re in danger of being crushed! 🐌
I’ve had the misfortune of stepping on one on the trail because it was camouflaged so well, I didn’t see it. I felt so bad! 😢
Most snails can live 5-7 years but there are some species that live as long as 15 years!
This year thus far, I’ve not found one. Usually, I find them after a rain, and we’ve had plenty of that! Perhaps that’s the issue-too much rain! I’m sure they’re out there somewhere; I just haven’t found them yet!
So, the next time you’re out hiking, please don’t step on the snails! Move them to safety so the can continue on their slow and methodical journey!
That’s it for today. Take care as always and enjoy the rest of your day wherever you are! 🙏🌎🙏
👣🐑☕️🐌😎🌞😎👍😁🌙🥱😴
NKJV Luke 24:28-31
Then they drew near to the village where they were going, and He indicated that He would have gone farther. But they constrained Him, saying, “Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” And He went in to stay with them.
Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight.
This report was published via Actifit app (Android | iOS). Check out the original version here on actifit.io
Picture taken by me and altered by cliptocomic app
@elizabethbit is a member of ladiesofsgs4eva
a sweet group of lady stackers of SGH
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