Something I never thought about writing about before. I encountered many of these critters this morning, so I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. They’re Leopard Slugs (Limax maximus). Its scientific name means, “biggest slug.” Though actually only the second largest in the genus Limax. The one in the image above stretched out to six or eight inches but in a relaxed position they’re about the size of my thumb.

Native to Europe. These slugs are a problem in gardens and are found in fields, woods, and gardens, usually near human habitation. Aside from garden plants they also eat dead plants, fungi and other slugs. Plants they avoid are fuzzy plants, and plants with scented leaves. They’re nocturnal and nearly always return to the same spot under a rock or log that to them is “home.”