The Giant African Snail can be spotted beneath leaves, vehicles, garbage, and in flooded drains, especially during the rainy season. It is recognized by its cone-shaped shell with seven or more ridges, along with reddish-brown vertical stripes. Additionally, it leaves behind a noticeable thick slime trail and accumulations of faeces.
Similar to most pests, the Giant African Snail carries a vector, namely the rat lungworm, which can lead to eosinophilic meningitis when transmitted from the snail to humans. This transmission can occur through direct contact or via the consumption of unwashed plant-based food contaminated with the snails’ slime or faeces.
The Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, Environment, and Sustainable Development urges citizens to exercise caution when encountering this hazardous creature. Currently, a specialized team has been assembled to eradicate these snails from different communities on scheduled days across Tobago.
If you discover these pests around your home, you can take steps to eliminate them, but it’s essential to use protective gear. You can collect and put the snails in a plastic container with a securely fitted lid. These snails should be submerged in a salt or bleach solution for 24 hours and then incinerated in a metal barrel.
If you find it challenging to dispose of these snails by yourself, the division recommends contacting their plant protection unit at 482-7528 for assistance.
