Snails are hermaphrodites which means that each individual snail contains both male and female reproductive organs. In order to mate two snails must meet and exchange sperm. This can happen either by the two snails rubbing against each other or by one snail shooting a dart-like structure at the other.
Once the sperm is exchanged each snail fertilizes its own eggs and stores them in a special pouch until they are ready to hatch. The number of eggs a snail can produce varies widely depending on the species but ranges from a few dozen to several thousand.
When the eggs are ready to hatch the snail secretes them onto the ground where they incubate for a period of two to four weeks. Once they hatch the baby snails or juveniles are on their own and must fend for themselves. They usually reach maturity within one to two years.
How do snails have babies?
Snails have babies by laying eggs.
How many eggs does a snail lay at a time?
A snail can lay anywhere from 12 to 120 eggs at a time.
How does a snail lay its eggs?
Snails lay their eggs in a soft wet place.
How long does it take for a snail egg to hatch?
It takes about two to four weeks for a snail egg to hatch.
What do baby snails eat?
Baby snails eat microscopic plants.
How long does it take for a baby snail to grow into an adult?
It takes about two to three years for a baby snail to grow into an adult.
Do all snails have the same number of eyes?
No all snails do not have the same number of eyes.
How many eyes does a snail have?
A snail typically has two eyes but some species of snail can have as many as four eyes.
What does a snail use its eyes for?
Snails use their eyes to see light and dark.
What does a snail use its tentacles for?
Snails use their tentacles to feel their way around and to smell.
What is the size of an adult snail?
The size of an adult snail varies depending on the species but most adult snails are about the size of a dime.
What is the snail’s shell made of?
The snail’s shell is made of calcium carbonate.
Does the snail’s shell grow as the snail grows?
Yes the snail’s shell grows as the snail grows.
How does a snail protect itself from predators?
The snail protects itself from predators by hiding in its shell.
What predators does the snail have to worry about?
The snail has to worry about predators such as birds lizards and mammals.
