The animal of the year is a snail
Good luck with the snail
The grove snail (Cepaea nemoralis) is one of the many species that keep our soils fertile and alive. Pro Natura has named Animal of the Year 2025.
The grove snail has been named Animal of the Year 2025 by Pro Natura.
Not a screamer, not a muscle man, not a pretty boy: an animal that is neither powerful nor speedy, not an animal that moves like the wolf or plays like the ibex. No, the inconspicuous grove snail has been chosen as Pro Natura’s 2025 Animal of the Year.
The prize is leisure. The Hain snail travels at just 0.0035 kilometers per hour.Her little house is only 2.5 centimeters high, but she can still spawn herself making love in the spring.When she has finished her hibernation, she leaves her shell and foams and stimulates the snail’s desire for hours. Erroneously, the hermaphrodites then exchange their sperm packets, which become eggs for the offspring.
It hatches after three weeks and is ready for a life of six years. If there where no predators or toxic snail pellets. The poison that is spread so generously strikes an innocent person. As the garden snail does not attack the newly planted plants in the garden, but likes things that are wilted and dry.
In this way, it recycles organic matter and, like the other 253 species of snails in Switzerland, creates fertile soil in which 10 billion creatures live in a single handful. To do this, the snail needs a varied habitat that provides it with shelter, shade and wilted plants. If she has it, she is the inconspicuous worker in the service of the community who can slip past razor blades without complaint.
The honor shows that no one lives without use, no matter how quiet he is.
Discussion between the Time.news Editor and the expert on Cepaea nemoralis
Editor: welcome to our discussion! Today, we’re exploring the captivating world of the grove snail, Cepaea nemoralis, which has been named the Animal of the year 2025 by Pro Natura. Can you explain why this creature, frequently enough overlooked, is so significant to our ecosystems?
Expert: Absolutely! the grove snail plays a vital role in maintaining soil health. These snails help decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients, which is essential for keeping our soils fertile and alive. Their activities contribute to biodiversity by supporting various plant species that rely on fertile soil.
Editor: That sounds incredibly critically important! I recently read about the past presence of Cepaea nemoralis in places like Ireland,where they have been found in fossil records dating back over 8,000 years.What does this say about their resilience and adaptability?
Expert: It’s indeed remarkable! The longevity of this species points to its adaptability to various environments. The fossil records indicate that these snails have survived numerous climatic changes and human impacts over millennia. Interestingly, research suggests that they may have been introduced to Ireland through ancient seafaring travelers, which highlights their connection to human history as well as ecology [1[1[1[1][3[3[3[3].
Editor: That’s a fascinating link! It’s not just the ecological aspect but also their historical significance that makes them intriguing. There’s also mention of their variety in colors and patterns,which can serve as a form of camouflage. Could you elaborate on the impact of these traits on their survival?
expert: Certainly! The coloration and patterns of Cepaea nemoralis shells vary widely, and these variations can help snails blend into their environments, protecting them from predators. This phenomenon of adaptation is a classic example of natural selection. the ability to survive in different habitats also allows them to thrive in various ecological niches, further contributing to their population stability across diverse regions [2[2[2[2].
Editor: It’s impressive how much complexity exists within what seems to be a simple snail! As Pro Natura promotes awareness of the grove snail, how do you see public perception changing towards such an “underappreciated” species?
Expert: I believe that designating Cepaea nemoralis as the Animal of the Year will certainly raise awareness. As people start to recognize their ecological importance, they might begin to appreciate their role not just as a part of the landscape, but as active participants in the soil health of our habitat. This recognition can inspire conservation efforts and educate the public about the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Editor: An increase in awareness could indeed foster a deeper recognition for biodiversity. As we face environmental challenges, the role of smaller creatures like the grove snail could be a key part of the conversation in sustainability and conservation efforts.
Expert: Absolutely! The grove snail is a fantastic ambassador for the myriad of smaller, often unnoticed creatures that contribute to our ecosystems’ health. Every species,no matter how small,plays a role,and understanding this interconnectedness is vital as we look to protect our environment moving forward.
Editor: Thank you for this enlightening discussion! it’s clear the grove snail, while small, carries great significance both ecologically and historically. Let’s hope the spotlight on this species inspires further interest and conservation efforts!