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Rare Snail Lays Egg from Neck in New Zealand

5/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a remarkable discovery, New Zealand's Department of Conservation witnessed the Powelliphanta augusta snail laying an egg from its neck, a rare sight for this nearly extinct species. Threatened by mining, these snails have been bred in captivity since 2006, maturing at eight years and producing around five eggs each year, with lifespans reaching up to 30 years.

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Story summary

In a remarkable discovery, New Zealand's Department of Conservation witnessed the Powelliphanta augusta snail laying an egg from its neck, a rare sight for this nearly extinct species. Threatened by mining, these snails have been bred in captivity since 2006, maturing at eight years and producing around five eggs each year, with lifespans reaching up to 30 years.