Who says pets have to be fluffy?

Saturday 14 September 2024

A "large number" of Giant African Land Snails are on the hunt for a spe-shell new home in Jersey... Could you help them out?

The group are currently in the care of the JSPCA, who say they make "excellent pets" (or should that be ex-shell-ent?), which are "easy to care for".

All they need are the right conditions to thrive – namely, a well-ventilated glass or sturdy glass tank with a secure lid. 

For example, two land snails would need an enclosure measuring 60cm long x 45cm long x 40cm high.

More snails would need a larger tank to live in comfortably.

For anyone on the fence about adopting such a unique pet, here are some fun facts...

• They usually live between five to seven years and can grow up to as big as an adult man's hand.

• The snails need a steady supply of calcium in order to grow – they feed on bones, eggshells, oysters and the shells of other snails.

• A single snail can produce up to 1,200 eggs a year.

• The snails are nocturnal and tend to move around during the night feeding on a wide range of plants.

If you would be interested in adopting the snails and giving them their forever home, applications can be made in person at the JSPCA or via their website by clicking HERE.