There is so much phenotypic (trait and characteristic) diversity within this one species that, at first, I thought I was seeing different species of banana slugs. It turns out that the Pacific banana slug is the only banana slug species in Washington. So, that helps with identification. As dogs differ in phenotype, Pacific banana slugs differ in color, texture, pattern and size. I later learned that their coloring relates to diet, light exposure, moisture levels, and sometimes, age.

On some trails, they’re everywhere, requiring careful attention to avoid stepping on them. Fortunately, because I want to photograph each unique individual, I’m not really moving too fast. It’s not a hike anymore; it’s more of a meander.

“Small, soft and vulnerable does not mean undervalued.”

– Chad Kirkpatrick, Hoyt Arboretum

I expected them to be slower-moving, what with all of the snail sayings (“a snail’s pace”, “slow as a snail,” “snail mail”). But when I see a banana slug through the window on a path, by the time I grab my camera and slip into my shoes, they’re off the path and almost disappeared under a plant!

I love the way their dorsal line becomes an artistic squiggle when they contract into their “I’m too big to eat” mode.

Fun Facts

• The Pacific Banana slug is the second-largest terrestrial slug in the world, growing up to nine and a half inches long!

• They live up to seven years – a surprisingly long time.

• They move at a pace of six and a half inches per minute. 

• They have four antennae: The top two are like eyes, sensing light and movement—the bottom two function as touch and smell sensors.

• The slime that covers and protects them is neither liquid nor solid, but rather a liquid crystal substance that can absorb one hundred times its volume in water!

  

The next time you’re out in the Pacific Northwest among the cedars, look closely at the edges of the trails and prepare to be impressed!

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The post Pacific Banana Slugs: The King of Snails appeared first on Exploring Nature by Sheila Newenham.