African land snails

[flump1]

Hi all, I have recently acquired 9 mixed sized of these wonderful snails and I was not happy with the plastic tank they came in so I have got them a larger glass tank. Today I heard an ominous bang and now I fear I may have a casualty . The snail in question has not moved for a while and I am afraid he had damaged his shell falling while having a wander round his new quarters. I have loose orchid bark as their substrate but I think he fell into the water bowl, which I think is made of a robust plastic. It is one designed for reptiles. If indeed my snail has suffered any form of injury would I do better to leave well alone, or isolate him ? ( hospital like ), any suggestion appreciated. (provided they do not say fry him with garlic butter ) !!

[wildwood]

If it has injured itself there is not a lot you can do, even the most enlightened vet would have trouble taking the vital signs of a snail. It is however unlikely as they have a resilient body. It is possible that it has cracked the shell somewhere but that will heal itself fairly quickly - important you are very gently if you pick it up. Make sure you supply a good calcium source, cuttlefish bone is good.

It is best if you leave it alone. It is quite possible that it is a bit taken aback with its new environment and may take a while to settle, especially if it has had a tumble.

[flump1]

Thanks wildwood, I have left him/her alone to recover, fingers crossed. They have cuttlefish bone and usual snail salad. All in all they seem to like their new abode .If they slip from the glass however they may well be moving back into the plastic one ! Thanks again.