Thousands Of Giant African Snails Captured In Miami-Dade

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami) – Thirty seven thousand and counting.

That's how many Giant African land snails have been collected in Miami-Dade by state's agriculture department since the first one was found in September, 2011. All of the snails were found in 14 core areas of the county; from Hialeah south to Homestead.

Check out the Giant African Land Snail Map to see where they've been found.

State agriculture officials said this invasive species of snail eats at least 500 different agricultural crops, can cause damage to plaster and stucco on homes and though rare, can carry rat lungworm, a parasite that can cause meningitis in humans, although no cases have been identified in the US.

The Giant African land snail is one of the largest land snails in the world, growing up to eight inches in length and more than four inches in diameter.

Anyone who thinks they may have them in their yard or planting bed is urged to call the state's Division of Plant Industry Helpline, 1-888-397-1517.