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Are Hammerhead worms bad?

Are Hammerhead worms bad?

Why are hammerhead worms bad and how do they get into the soil? The invasive worms aren’t toxic to humans or animals, but they prey on common earthworms and other soil-dwelling species, McGowan said. One of the first reports of a hammerhead worm in the region crossed McGowan’s desk in 2018.

What do you do if you find a hammerhead worm?

If you come across the hammerhead flatworm, Morgan-Olvera said to use a stick, gloves or paper towel to place it in a sealed bag with salt and/or vinegar, and freeze the worms overnight. Throwing the worms away won’t work, and cutting the worms into pieces will make the problem worse.

Are Hammerhead worms good for your garden?

Although they’re harmless to people, they can be devastating to a garden. Hammerhead worms are considered an invasive species. They prey on earthworms, and can completely decimate a garden if they aren’t taken care of. Earthworms are so crucial in any garden because they help fertilize and aerate the soil.

Are Hammerhead worms good?

Hammerhead worms are not harmful to humans, nor are they harmful to household pets but they are extremely harmful to earthworms, which they eat. Hammerhead worms will follow an earthworm’s trail to capture it, and then it holds its victim in place with its muscles and a sticky secretion.

What happens if you touch a hammerhead flatworm?

Morgan-Olvera confirmed with Newsweek these flatworms can be dangerous to humans. She explained that as the hammerhead flatworms prey on earthworms, it causes the invasive species to secrete a neurotoxin that poses a great threat to anyone that touches them or eats them.

Are Hammerhead worms toxic to dogs?

They are not harmful to people and pets, but earthworms, beware! Hammerhead worms live in the ground like earthworms do and their smaller worm neighbors are their favorite snack.