Great Pond Snail
Lymnaea stagnalis
Shell length 45mm

A large water snail with a brown, conical shell. Sometimes seen moving among water plants or even at surface, gliding along underside of surface film. Also comes to the surface periodically to replenish air supply. Feeds on encrusting algae by rasping with tongue; feeding trails can sometimes be observed on sides of tanks if kept in captivity. Sausage-shaped gelatinous masses of eggs are often found on undersides of water-lily leaves. Widespread and common in ponds, lakes and canals in England, Wales and Ireland; extremely local in Scotland.