Beware! Hammerhead Worms Now In South Carolina
Last year, there were over 165 sightings of the hammerhead worm in South Carolina. These worms are more common in Southeast Asia. But they’re becoming more prevalent, in the southern states.
This isn’t surprising as they’re attracted to hotter, more humid climates. But it certainly should be a cause for concern.
Hammerhead worms are one of the most toxic and invasive species in existence. They feed on slugs, insect larvae, earthworms, and even other hammerhead worms.
You may consider some of these ‘garden pests’. But their removal can throw off the natural balance of your garden and slowly destroy it. Read on to learn more and how you can safeguard yourself, your family, and your beautiful garden.
The Silent Invaders
Of all the types of worms found in the US, they may have the worst reputation. Luckily, it’s easy to identify hammerhead worms. They’re named after their most distinctive feature – a fan-like head with a flattened, long body.
Their coloring can be a range of shades usually green, gray, gold, or brown. Some of them are also striped. They vary in length and can be as short as five cm but can easily exceed 20 cm.
They glide like slugs and also use strips of mucus to help them move. You’ll probably only observe these movements at night.
They usually feed in the darkness due to their light sensitivity. It’s also the time when humidity levels are higher. This makes them more attracted to damp, cool spots such as under shrubs, rocks, or logs.
The Dangers of Hammerhead Worms
There’s a reason why hammerhead worms are often referred to as destructive pests. You now know that they can disrupt the natural order of things in your garden.
However, they’re also extremely toxic. They contain the same toxin found in pufferfish and the blue-ringed octopus. This helps them to paralyze their prey.
Although they don’t bite, if you touch a hammerhead worm, the toxin can irritate your skin. It can also affect pets by making them nauseous. It’s recommended that you use gloves if you have to handle them.
Getting Rid of Hammerhead Worms
If you find hammerhead worms in your garden, your first instinct may be to mutilate them in some way. However, this should be the last thing you do.
If smashed they can rapidly regenerate damaged tissue. If cut into pieces, each piece will regenerate within a few weeks as a new worm.
This not only makes them creepy but very hard to get rid of. Using DIY methods to eliminate them can be time-consuming and dangerous. It involves sprinkling them with salt, vinegar, or citrus oil. However, even after death, you shouldn’t touch them.
There’s also no way to tell if you’ve gotten rid of all of them. It’s, therefore, best to call a pest control removal company.
They will have specific methods to remove them. Their treatment plan will also include ways to prevent any future invasions.
Safeguard Your Family and Save Your Garden
It’s often the things that you don’t know that can end up causing you problems. If you live in South Carolina, hammerhead worms can be one of them.
They can silently destroy your garden at night and make kids or pets sick if they’re found by them during the day. They’re an invasive species that you’ll want to get rid of immediately. Call someone who can ensure this.
Precision Predator specializes in wildlife removal. We’ve dealt with a variety of species and can guide you In the right direction toward the elimination of hammerhead worms. Contact Precision Predator today for all of your wildlife removal needs. We also offer safe and effective pest control methods for rodents.
