Distribution of Trochoidea elegans in 2017-2025

Trochoidea elegans is a snail that is very easy to identify. It is cone-shaped, light-coloured (white or streaked with dark longitudinal bands, sometimes ochre) and often "perches" at the top of grass stems to avoid the heat.

Strictly Mediterranean, it has been unintentionally introduced by man into many regions, notably through the transport of limestone materials, but also by tourist vehicles. The snail is active at night and, in the morning, climbs on cars. It can then travel hundreds of kilometres before descending to a completely different region. If the site is suitable and the snail is accompanied by other snails, a new life begins for these adventurous pioneers.

Trochoidea elegans is particularly fond of dry, well-exposed lawns and meadows, but it is increasingly found in dry crops, industrial wasteland and around tourist parking areas.

Please look out for this small, easy-to-identify mollusc and make a note of any sightings in Faune-France or the NaturaList app.

Image caption: Trochoidea elegans often perches at the top of grasses. © Philippe Jourde

Map based on collective data from Faune-France and its partners. No use authorised without the prior consent of the LPO.