![]() ![]() Moreover, many of these worms can harbor parasitic nematodes, posing another layer of threat. Domestic mammals may also face risks if they consume the worm. Direct contact can cause skin irritation in humans. This predatory behavior presents a significant ecological threat as they are known to deplete earthworm populations which play a crucial role in maintaining soil health in forests, crops, and gardens.įurther complicating the issue, hammerhead worms secrete toxins, potentially harmful to humans and pets. Their mouths are situated on the underside of their bodies, and they wrap around their prey, like earthworms, snails, and slugs, to consume them. These predatory worms have a unique mode of feeding. And if their appearance doesn’t startle you, their habits might. Their long, snake-like bodies, which can reach lengths of 15 inches, sport dorsal stripes and sometimes a dark collar, making them easily distinguishable. Their peculiar half-moon-shaped heads are reminiscent of hammerhead sharks. ![]() Hammerhead worms are not your average earthworms. Originally from Southeast Asia, these worms have slowly been spreading across the U.S., threatening native wildlife. Imagine stumbling upon a creature with the distinctive head of a hammerhead shark but on land! This description fits the hammerhead worm, an invasive species recently detected near Washington, D.C. Worms with a menacing appearance and toxic nature are slowly making their way across America. ![]()
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