Meet Ashley
This little gal plays a vital role in the health of the Columbia River Basin. She and her fellow aquatic snails graze on algae and bacteria, keeping their streams clean and clear. Other species in the ecosystem depend on this service for their well-being.
The U.S. Geological Survey has identified the Ashy pebblesnail as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Ashley and her friends used to roam the entire Pacific Northwest but are now limited to a handful of cold-water streams in Eastern Washington and Oregon.
What are their biggest threats? Pollution and siltation
What can be done to help them?
-
Limit emissions to avoid heating up her stream
-
Build houses away from the river and avoid dams
-
Keep waterways clear of chemicals and trash
Ashley and her friends will soon tuck into their shells and hibernate for the winter. Let's hope she wakes up to a brighter, cleaner, and colder spring.
Before the big nap, she intends to check out the state's Western half. Stay tuned for more adventures!
George was an Achatinella Apexfulva from the Ko'olau Mountain Range on Oahu. He died in 2019 as the last known snail of his species.
His community had been affected by climate change, habitat destruction, and invasive predators.
Mongooses, rats, and released pets have devastated populations.
What you can do:
Kaena is a shiny member of the Achatinella Mustelina species from the Wai'anae Mountain Range. His species is listed as critically imperiled.
His community has also been affected by climate change, logging, grazing, and forest fires.
Record heat and a lack of shade have made the area especially hostile.
What you can do:
Eddie is a brave member of the Achatinella Bulimoides species from the Ko'olau Mountain Range. His is also listed as critically endangered.
His community has also been affected by climate change, housing developments, and invasive species.
Rapid urban growth and illegal hiking has contributed to decline.
What you can do: