A ban on snail collection has been introduced in Mandas: in the countryside of the Trexenta town, no helicides (snails, precisely) can be collected until April 30, 2026.
Mayor Umberto Oppus made the decision, signing a detailed ordinance.
In the measure, the mayor explains that the harvesting, for commercial or food purposes, "has led to the depletion of this particular wildlife species. " Based on studies, "the reproduction of helicids begins with the first rains near the end of the summer season." Therefore, during this period.
Oppus believes it is "necessary and urgent" to adopt appropriate measures to safeguard snails in order to preserve the species "threatened by indiscriminate collection".
At least two egg-layings are considered necessary for repopulation. Hence the suspension until next spring.
Anyone who violates the ordinance and is caught may be fined between 50 and 500 euros.
(Unioneonline/E.Fr.)
