I came across this in the garden today. It was flat on the bottom and moved with it's head raised above the ground (the head is to the top left). It was around 4 inches in length. Any ideas?
Paul
My bird photos HERE
I`m guessing that you live up north or in Scotland. New Zealand flatworm possibly.Invasive & destructive,it`ll eat all your earthworms.I dont know if they should be reported or if we just have to put up with them now :-( p.s Am no expert in flatworms etc.
Hello Paul,
maybe an expert will have an answer for you as well, but if edgebander is right (and he might well be, I have compared some pictures with your picture)you can have a read here:
flatworm.fera.defra.gov.uk They have some advice there about what to do if you have found one, and also an address in Scotland.
I really hope that this is not what you have found in your garden.
Regards, Bente
I think it probably is a nzf. It`s so depressing dealing with invasive species.Nearly all my ladybirds are harlequins now and I`m currently trying to stop retailers passing off Spanish Bluebells as English...ho..humm.
Thanks folks, it certainly fits the descriptions for a NZ Flatworm. It's too late to do anything about this particular one now as it was moved out of harm’s way with the aid of a twig. I may not be so nice if I find another one though.!!
Unknown said: I always pick them up off pavements etc and try to save them
Me too Birdie, I try to save everything from Spiders to Slaters(Woodlice). I've asked Mrs A if she's seen any but she hasn't and she's always doing stuff in the garden. Would you kill the Flatworms?