Meet the invasive New Zealand mud snail. Recently found in Lake Tahoe in August 2023, these snails are notoriously difficult to detect due to their extremely small size (4 to 6 mm). One snail and its offspring can result in more than 2.7 billion snails in four years – forming dense populations and displacing native species. Keep an eye out for them, they can easily be transported on fishing gear (waders, boots, boats, etc.).
How can you help: Visually inspect all fishing gear and remove any debris before departing the location, freeze gear for more than 24 hours or wash in over 140oF water. Utilize trailer/boat inspection and wash stations where available. Report any positive detections (866)440-9530 (California) or (775)688-1314 (Nevada).
Photo: New Zealand mud snails by Robyn Draheim/USFWS
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