Can you find snails outside in the fall?

[3lilreds in NC]

That's what we're supposed to be looking for in nature study. I have seen their little trails in the spring, but haven't seen any around lately. Presumably since this is what the pre-planned curriculum tells me to do, snails should be around at this time of year. Yes?

 

Sigh. I am SO trying to avoid my reality today. Back to school before the natives get too restless.

[Jennifer3141]

We found one Saturday but it was rainy and very, very warm.

Good luck snail hunting!

 

Jen

[Jean in Newcastle]

The best time to look for snails (or slugs) is when it is sprinkling or right after it was raining.

[mazakaal]

Lots of snails and slugs here. I felt like I was running an obstacle course trying to avoid stepping on them when I was out for my jog this morning. But, yes, they do come out in the rain, and if you're anywhere near my parents in North Carolina where they're having severe drought, they may not be very easy to find. Are you on water restriction? Can you possibly set a sprinkler on one area of your garden for a few hours to trick them into coming out? I have no idea if this would work or not, but it may be worth a try if you're not going to break any laws. :) Good luck.

[dawn of ns]

Also, put a damp piece of cardboard on the lawn somewhere for a couple of days. I'm always finding them on the underside of stuff on the lawn.

[VaKim]

Put out some cat food or dog food overnight. You will have plenty! I hate the nasty little things, but they are out here way up into December sometimes! Yuck!!

[3lilreds in NC]

Thanks ladies! We will go out and poke around some. I think we're supposed to get some rain today or tomorrow, so we will try after that. Woo hoo!

[clwcain]

There were plenty on my patio over the weekend, with the remnants of Ike passing overhead. We even had one crawling down the windows of our backdoor, so I took the opportunity to show our 5yo the underside of the snail.

 

He thought it was very cool.

 

Good luck finding your snails.

 

When I read the thread title, I thought you were asking about snails-for-eating, not snails-for-nature-study. :blush5:

I was going to say "try your nearest French restaurant", but, um, well...it wasn't necessary or appropriate. ;)

[3lilreds in NC]

Eeeeew... snails to eat. *shudder* Gross gross gross!!!

 

Thanks for the thought though. You know, presumably they are alive when they get to said French restaurants so if I get desperate perhaps I will call one. :)

 

(Bleah!)