Is it a snail fossil?

Question

I went to a beach and found a snail shell, it looked really old with wholes on it and such, and i looked inside and there is a dried snail from looks like years back.

Is this considered a snail fossil or just a rock hard dry snail?

either way it looks pretty cool

Answer 1

it wouldnt be a snail fossil, because fossils look quite different from what you are describing.

firstly, if it was a fossil, then there would be no snail left inside. Fossilization occurs when the body breaks down into minerals over time. Also, there's a good chance that the shell would be pitch black if it was a fossil.

based on your description, it sounds like a sea gull or something wanted it for a meal, but gave up on it and dropped it to the ground.

This would explain the holes.  And the snail wouldve been dried up because when snails die, they stop producing moisture for their skin, so they dry up.

hope that helps!