These small, highly attractive sea snails are very common across most seashores and shallow waters, spending most of their time grazing on seaweed and rocks. Occasionally, you can see their two striped antennae sticking out when they are on the move.
How to identify
The flattish shell usually consists of alternating green/grey and purple bands, which tend to fade as the snail gets older. Gently turn the shell over and look for a small hole on the underside, along with the characteristic ‘mother of pearl,’ which all topshells possess.
Distribution
Found along the southern and western shores of Britain as far north as Scotland and on suitable shores in Ireland.
Did you know?
This topshell’s scientific name ‘umbilicalis’ comes from the large hole on its underside, like a belly button!
