Are Giant African Land Snails banned in Canada?

Question

Some people tell me Giant African Land Snails are banned in Canada, while others tell me they aren't -- that they are just banned in the United States. Can anyone help me clarify this please? I am looking to get one, and yes, I live in Canada.

Answer 1

While they are illegal in Canada, there are a lot of people that own them. The logic behind their banning is typical Canadian Government logic. All members of the Achatina family (Giant African Landsnails) are tropical snails. They cannot survive in Canada, and in fact, cannot survive in the U.S. outside of Hawaii. They cannot tolerate even a short freeze, or extended very cool weather. While there was a supposed infestation in southern Dade County, Florida (south of Miami), in the 1960's, they likely confused most with the endemic tree snails (Liguus and Orthalicus), which were driven to the brink of extinction at about the same time. England, with a moderate climate like much of the US. has had GAL's commonly sold for pets for nearly a century. yet they have never been able to establish themselves in the wild. I have had a GAL since 2000. I obtained it from England. Good Luck!