How to use this guide
This guide is designed to help identify the most commonly encountered slugs and snails in Oregon. Where possible, species are identified. The intent is to enable picture-based identification, but there is also an identification guide. For each genus or species, a brief description is provided that includes information about size, pest status, and whether it is native or exotic. Keep in mind that only 20 of Oregon’s 62 known genera are included. If you look more intensively in natural areas or at small (5mm or less) snails, you will likely encounter species not covered here. Also be aware that snail and slug identification can be difficult and many species can only be confidently identified by differences in genitalia (requiring dissection).
When pests are known that are not yet established in Oregon, but are similar to others in the guide, identification information is provided when possible. For some species, we request that you save the specimen and contact the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
When pests are known that are not yet established in Oregon, but are similar to others in the guide, identification information is provided when possible. For some species, we request that you save the specimen and contact the Oregon Department of Agriculture.