Garlic Snail - Oxychilus alliarius

6-8mm - the Garlic Snail is pale, yellow-brown and glossy. It has a closely-coiled translucent shell with a very low spire and a medium umbilicus. The snail itself is characteristically dark blue-grey. When disturbed, this snail produces a secretion that smells strongly of garlic.

Whilst is not possible to be certain of this species from an image alone, the garlic smell from the the specimen is a  helpful feature. However Oxychilis navarricus also can produce a garlic smell, though not usually as strong. O. navarricus is larger (8-10mm) and has a black mantle that is usually obvious as a dark band just within the shell.

• 6-8mm
• glossy shell
• releases garlic smell when irritated
• dark blue-grey body

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. In the comments box, describe the size and identifying characters.

In moist situations in plant litter, moss, etc. Sometimes in gardens.

Plant and detritus feeder on algae and plant litter.

Widespread and common throughout Britain.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.