Milk Snail (also known as the Girdled Snail)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Stylommatophora, Family: Helicidae, Genus: Otala, Species: Otala lactea · Helicidae (Typical garden snails) · Gastropod land snail, whole shell, globose spiral shape
Species
Otala lactea
Shell Type
Gastropod land snail, whole shell, globose spiral shape
Family
Helicidae (Typical garden snails)
Size
Approximately 1 inch (25-35 mm) in diameter, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 25 to 38 mm.
Color & Pattern
Milky white or pale tan base color featuring prominent dark brown or reddish-brown spiral bands. The apex and early whorls are a distinct solid brownish-pink color. Colors are natural and retain good contrast.
Rarity
Common in its native range and introduced regions, frequently found around agricultural areas and gardens.
Habitat
Terrestrial habitats including agricultural fields, gardens, scrublands, dunes, and disturbed areas. Prefers calcareous soils and arid or semi-arid environments.
Geographic Range
Native to the Mediterranean region (Southern Europe and North Africa). Introduced and naturalized in various parts of the world, including parts of the United States (such as Florida and California) and several island groups.
Description
A charming and sturdy globose land snail shell with a low, rounded spire. The surface features fine growth lines giving it a slightly textured, matte finish. The dark spiral bands vary in width and intensity against the milky background, creating a striking banded appearance.
Key Features
Rounded globose shape with a low spire, distinct dark brown spiral banding on a pale/milky background, and a characteristic reddish-brown apex. Thickened outer lip in mature adults.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value. Often collected casually by amateur shell enthusiasts rather than specialized marine shell collectors, though appreciated for its clean banded aesthetics.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall with intact whorls and clear coloration, though showing minor signs of natural weathering and a small repaired crack typical of a weathered land shell. Collector grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
Otala lactea is capable of aestivation (a state of dormancy during dry or hot periods), sealing the shell aperture with a dried mucous layer called an epiphragm to retain moisture for months.
Ecological Role
Functions as a herbivore and detritivore in terrestrial ecosystems, consuming decaying plant matter and green vegetation. Can occasionally become an agricultural pest outside its native habitat.
Similar Species
The Roman Snail (Helix pomatia) and the Garden Snail (Cornu aspersum), which differ in size, spire height, and specific banding or mottling patterns.
Beach Finding Tips
As a terrestrial species, these are not found on marine beaches. Instead, look in dry, calcium-rich areas, under rocks, around agricultural borders, or in gardens after rainfall in regions where they have been introduced.