Heath Snail
Helicella itala
This record describes Helicella itala (species). Recorded family: Hygromiidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
9-25mm diameter with a low spire. Generally pale but usually with dark spiral bands. It has a large umbilicus that is free from the mouth lip. Cernuella virgata is found in similar habitats and also has dark spiral bands - but this species is much more globular and the mouth lip partly obscures the umbilicus. A photo is needed of both the upper shell and also the underside showing the umbilicus. Prefers short, dry calcareous grassland. In coastal areas it is also found on dunes. Widespread but increasingly uncommon inland.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Hygromiidae
- Genus
- Helicella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
and also has dark spiral bands - but this species is much more globular and the mouth lip partly obscures the umbilicus.
Seasonal Activity
All year
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but increasingly uncommon inland.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Helicella itala. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Pulmonata includes terrestrial and freshwater snails and slugs with ~30,000 described species. The giant African land snail (Lissachatina fulica) can reach 20cm and is one of the most invasive species globally.
Ecological role of the group
Terrestrial gastropods are important decomposers and calcium recyclers in forest ecosystems. They are also critical food sources for birds, hedgehogs, and beetles. Many species are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Slugs and snails cause billions in crop damage worldwide. The global molluscicide market was valued at $800 million in 2023. Conversely, edible snails (escargot) support a global industry worth over $4 billion annually.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, agricultural pest management, gastropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Heath Snail (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Heath Snail
What is Heath Snail?
Heath Snail (Helicella itala) is a species in the family Hygromiidae, within the order Pulmonata.
How big is Heath Snail?
(9-25mm) diameter
Where is Heath Snail found?
Habitat: and also has dark spiral bands - but this species is much more globular and the mouth lip partly obscures the umbilicus.
When is Heath Snail active?
Heath Snail: seasonal activity - All year.