Florida’s Broward County faces a slimy nightmare: giant african snails, rat-sized invaders that devour stucco walls and carry meningitis, have returned, prompting an immediate quarantine by state officials.
Announced February 15, 2026, the quarantine locks down the area to curb the spread of these destructive pests. Officials warn residents to stay alert, as the snails’ ability to chew through home exteriors and transmit serious illness heightens the stakes. This resurgence echoes past battles with the species in the state, demanding swift action to protect property and public safety.
Quarantine Hits Broward County
Florida officials moved fast. On February 15, 2026, they imposed a strict quarantine across Broward County. The measure aims to contain the giant african snails before they overrun more turf. Movement of plants, soil, and certain goods now faces heavy restrictions. Inspectors patrol hotspots, hunting for egg clusters and trails of slime. Residents report sightings, fueling the crackdown. This isn’t optional—violations carry penalties. The quarantine buys time to eradicate the threat at its source.
Rat-Sized Menace Returns
These aren’t your garden-variety snails. Giant African land snails match a rat in size, growing up to eight inches long with thick, tough shells. Their bulk makes them hard to miss—and tough to ignore. Florida has fought them before, declaring victory in eradications. But on February 15, 2026, reports confirmed their comeback in Broward County. How they slipped back remains under investigation, but their presence signals trouble. One snail can lay hundreds of eggs, turning a few finds into an army fast.
Stucco Walls Under Siege
Homeowners beware: these snails eat stucco. Their radula—a rasping mouthpart—grinds calcium-rich surfaces like walls, siding, and concrete. In Broward County, where stucco defines so many homes, the damage adds up quick. A single infestation chews visible holes, weakens structures, and invites water intrusion. Repair costs soar as stucco crumbles. Officials highlight this trait in warnings, urging checks around foundations and yards. The snails’ hunger for building materials sets them apart from typical pests.
For details on their destructive feeding habits, see the Florida Department of Agriculture’s Giant African Land Snail page.
Meningitis on the Line
Health risks amplify the alarm. Giant african snails carry parasites linked to meningitis. Humans touch slime or mishandle snails, and the pathogen—often rat lungworm—takes hold. Symptoms strike hard: headaches, stiff necks, nausea. Vulnerable groups face worse outcomes. In past outbreaks, infections traced back to these carriers. Broward residents now hear repeated cautions: don’t touch, don’t eat, report immediately. The quarantine underscores this danger, protecting against a dual threat of property ruin and illness…