If you ever spot clusters of small, bubblegum-pink eggs near ponds or along the edges of a garden water feature, take a closer look—what you’re seeing might be more dangerous than it appears. These vibrant eggs are likely laid by apple snails, a fast-spreading freshwater species originally from South America that’s now wreaking havoc in ecosystems around the globe.
These snails, which can grow to the size of a tennis ball, love warm, damp habitats like marshes, wetlands, and backyard ponds. They’ve taken hold in parts of North America, Europe, and Asia—disrupting ecosystems, damaging crops, and threatening native species. Just one cluster of their brightly colored eggs can contain up to 600 future snails, making their population explode in a short time.
Their appetite is just as intense. Apple snails feast on aquatic plants, which can devastate rice paddies, ruin ornamental gardens, and strip natural wetlands of vegetation. To make matters worse, the eggs themselves are toxic—not just to predators, but also potentially harmful to humans. It’s best to avoid touching them barehanded and use gloves if removal is necessary.
In the U.S., they’ve become especially problematic in warmer states like Florida, Texas, and California. European countries such as France and Spain are also dealing with outbreaks, and in parts of Asia, these pests have caused serious issues in rice farming communities.
What can you do? If you find a suspicious pink egg mass, report it to your local environmental agency. Always wear gloves when disposing of the eggs and never release pet snails into natural water bodies. Homeowners with backyard ponds and water plants should be particularly careful, as these snails can wipe out aquatic vegetation in no time.
While the eggs may look harmless—or even pretty—they’re a clear red flag. Spotting them early and acting quickly is essential for protecting both your garden and the larger ecosystem. Share this information to help others stay informed and ready to take action.
