C.E. #8

Giant Snails Found in Houston

Event Summary: Researchers at the Institute for the Study of Invasive Species at Sam Houston State University along with authorities are warning Houston residents to stay away from an interesting pest.  According to reports, one resident was doing her daily gardening when she discovered a giant African land snail in her yard.  After notifying the Lady Bird Johnson Wild Flower Center, warnings were issued about the possible diseases that these creatures can carry.  Some of these diseases include meningitis and different parasitic diseases.

Event Significance: This event is significant for the Houston area because these snails, while physically harmless, can carry harmful diseases.  Residents have been warned to take caution if a giant snail is spotted and to notify authorities.

Personal Response: When I saw the size of the snail, I felt a tingling sensation that went from the tips of my toes to the ends of my hair.  It made me cringe, both on the outside and the inside as I wanted to crawl into a little ball and stare at the disgusting creature that had appeared before my eyes.  SNAILS ARE NOT MEANT TO BE THIS BIG. As I was investigating into the article further, I read the lovely fact that these snails can lay up to 100 eggs per month.  I just have one thing to say - I'm glad I'm not living in Houston.

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