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Rare Albino Land Snails Rescued from Abandoned Vivarium
3 Nov
Summary
- Two giant albino land snails abandoned by previous owner
- Snails found in poor condition, with old food and overturned water
- Snails now in care of reptile specialist, awaiting rehoming
On 2025-10-31, two rare giant albino land snails were discovered abandoned in a vivarium that had been dumped in the bushes near Ingram Avenue in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. The RSPCA reports that the snails were in a vulnerable state, with old food, an overturned water dish, and a temperature far below the 20°C they require to survive.
Fortunately, the snails were found in time and are now in the care of a reptile specialist in Dunstable, Bedfordshire. RSPCA Inspector Malwina Gasiorek expressed sadness that the snails, which are not native to the UK, were simply discarded by their previous owner. She emphasized the importance of researching the needs of exotic pets before taking them on.
The giant albino land snails, native to tropical wetlands and forests in sub-Saharan Africa, are hermaphrodites and can multiply quickly. While they make unique pets, they require specialized care, and it is illegal to release them or their eggs into the wild in the UK. The RSPCA is now working to find the snails a suitable new home where their needs can be properly met.
