Published on Tuesday, November 4, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The Ministry of Agriculture (MAG) has reported an outbreak of the giant African land snail (Achatina Lissachatina fulica) in a residential area of Mercedes Sur Canton, in Heredia Province.

A fully grown snail measures about 2.8 inches (7 centimeters) in diameter and can reach more than 7.9 inches (20 centimeters) in length, making it one of the largest land snails in the world. Adult snails typically have seven to nine whorls. Although the shell is usually brown with cream-colored sections near the tip, its color can vary widely.

In many regions, the species is considered both an agricultural and household pest capable of transmitting pathogens harmful to humans and plants. Authorities are urging strict quarantine measures to prevent its spread.

The giant African land snail is classified as a major pest worldwide. In the United States, it is federally prohibited, making it illegal to sell or possess the species.

Officials from the ministry are conducting inspections to identify the extent of the infestation. Specimens are being counted and collected for safe disposal.

“Fortunately, the area where the snail was detected is residential, not agricultural,” said Nelson Morera, a representative of the ministry. “However, due to its high potential for spreading, we’re deploying all available resources to contain the outbreak.”

According to authorities, the discovery followed a citizen’s report. So far, roughly 460 specimens have been found, ranging from immature and juvenile snails to subadults and adults, along with several empty shells.

 

Residents are reminded:

• If you find a specimen that could be a giant African land snail, report it to the ministry’s hotline at 2549-3501.

• Never touch a snail with your bare hands. Always use gloves, as these mollusks can carry bacteria harmful to humans and animals, including pets.

• Place the snail in a sealed container or bag until ministry officials respond.

• Do not crush the snail or throw it in the trash.

Authorities noted that Costa Rica is home to a wide variety of native snails that pose no risk to agriculture. The giant African land snail, however, is believed to have entered the country through the illegal exotic animal trade.

The species was first detected in Costa Rica in 2021 in Liberia, Guanacaste province. The recent finding in Heredia marks the second known case in the country.

In August, police reported another wildlife trafficking case after seizing an undisclosed number of African wild animals being kept illegally in captivity at three pet stores in San José.

Anyone who suspects a wild animal is being trafficked, kept in captivity, or sold illegally is encouraged to contact the National System of Conservation Areas (Sinac) dedicated hotline at 1192.

The MAG is the state agency responsible for leading and regulating agriculture in Costa Rica, including developing and enforcing national laws and policies related to farming, livestock, and food production.

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