The Spanish slug has been spreading in Latvia for over a decade, and it has now reached the nature reserve on Moricsala. However, experts point out that the main concern is not the snail's presence on the island in Lake Usma, but the damage it causes in fields and allotments. A platform has been created to report the location of these slugs, and the Nature Conservation Agency emphasises that eradication efforts can only be successful if everyone works together.
Experts state that one can only speculate as to how the slug managed to reach the restricted area of Moricsala, where only scientists work. It was most likely accidental, for example, with eggs attaching themselves to birds' feet, clothing, footwear, or equipment. It is generally easier to control invasive species on islands because the territory is limited. The most effective method remains collecting them by hand and placing them in a sealed container.
