About This Activity
Did you know that snail shells can be left-handed (sinistral) or right-handed (dextral)? Just like humans, left-handed snails are rare—only about 10% of all mollusk species have shells that spiral in this direction. Here on Sanibel, we’re lucky to have one of the most iconic sinistral species: the lightning whelk, named for the striking, lightning-like stripes that adorn its shell. In fact, one of the largest lightning whelks in the world was found right here on this very island! This week, we’ll follow snail trails in the intertidal, experiment with opposite-hand challenges, get up close and personal with microscopes, and—of course, in true Sanibel Sea School fashion—head out on the waves to show off our surf skills.
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