Snail Racing
How to run a successful Snail Race and discover some juicy facts about slugs and snails along the way
What you will need:
- At least two snails, or as many as you can find. You may find these hiding in dark damp places around the exterior of your house e.g. under plant pots/behind guttering/under you bin.
- Snails are more active in damp weather and at night
- A snail racing track – a defined circle with a shiny surface. This could be a re-purposed plastic bag with a circle drawn on it, a large plate, or even a damp tablecloth. The key is to spray a little water on your track for an easy slither, and keep the racetrack in the shade
- Optional: coloured stickers to distinguish between your snails
- Optional: A stopwatch if you would like to time the race
- If it is a hot day, it may take some time for your snails to wake up. Encourage them out by putting them in a container with air holes, in the shade, a sprinkle of water for moisture, and a few tasty lettuce leaves thrown in for a pre-race snack.
- You start the race by placing all the snails in the centre of the circle
- The winner is the snail that reaches the edge of the circle quickest
Snails do not appreciate a life in captivity, so always return your snails to their hidey holes once your champions are crowned!