Description
Both slugs and snails are plant eating molluscs which are
significant pests of horticulture and agriculture. Only very
occasionally will they be found indoors, principally in damp
basements.
Biology and Habitat
Slugs and snails are mainly, though not exclusively, nocturnal.
They find harbourage under flowerpots and decaying boards, in
hedgerows, beneath damp refuse, etc. Eggs are laid in clusters and
hatch, depending on weather conditions within twenty-eight days.
Life expectancy is up to four years.
Importance
Cellars of other damp conditions inside may attract slugs and
snails to become household pests leaving slimy trails across
carpets and other flooring materials. They can, therefore, be an
unpleasant nuisance but they do not spread disease and hence their
presence does not constitute a risk to health.
Control
Clear outside vegetation and other debris near to points of
access to the inside. Slug pellets may be applied externally. Try
also sinking a jar into the ground and filling it two thirds full
of stale beer (any brand!). This is not only effective in that the
attracted slugs will fall in and die happily but it also provides
an unusual topic of conversation.
Carry out necessary house maintenance, sealing holes, repainting
brickwork, etc, to eliminate/minimise the ingress of water,
moisture and molluscs.
Safety
Before using an insecticide to protect yourself and others and
to minimise damage to the environment ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE
APPLICATION AND USE INSTRUCTIONS PRINTED ON THE CONTAINER.
Persevere with the above advice and you should be successful in
eradicating slugs and snails.
