If You See This Snail in Montana: Crush It, Stomp It, Burn It!

Okay, maybe burning it is taking it a bit too far.

But with that said, Montana farmers (and ranchers if the animals get affected) have to be on the lookout for an invasive species looking to take over Montana.

Bioblitz in Montana: August 10-17

A "bioblitz" was announced on Thursday, August 6th by the Central & Eastern Montana Invasive Species Team on their Facebook page.

"A BioBlitz is a coordinated, short-term effort to rapidly gather observations across a wide area," the Central & Eastern Montana Invasive Species Team said, "In In this case, our goal is simple: presence/absence."

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"Even a quick 5-minute check of a single site in your county provides valuable data. Ideally, we would like to account for as many counties as possible during this one-week window."

The focus of this bioblitz? The Eastern Heath Snail.

Snails Are Invading Montana

Apparently, KRTV is reporting that these guys have popped up all around Montana including Belt, Cascade, and others.

But what makes them so bad?

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According to the University of Montana, these little pests can contaminate or completely ruin your grains, harm your fruits and vegetables, and transmit plant and animal diseases.

I know, sounds fun, right?

Where Do I Find Eastern Heath Snails? How Do I Get Rid of Them?

Experts say they're usually found in vegetation, under rocks, boards, and are known for climbing vegetation.

Don't worry! There's a way to treat for the snails but still - make sure you report these little things when you see them!

Here is how to treat for the EHS according to the University of Montana:

"To reduce and manage snail numbers, apply molluscicides approved for use in your state to the infested areas. Use granular molluscicide baits having either metaldehyde or iron phosphate as the active ingredient. There are a variety of brand name molluscicides with these ingredients which have appropriate labeling for the sites to be treated."

Have you spotted these critters around Montana? Report them first and then share your photos with us HERE.