PHOTOS: Report This Invasive 'Mystery' Snail in the Hudson Valley

There are plenty of invasive species looking to make their homes in the Hudson Valley, and it unfortunately looks like one "mysterious" animal in particular might be spreading.

From the famous creatures ruining our ecosystems (looking at you, spotted lanternfly and Japanese beetle) to the lesser-known culprits, there's unseen ecological battles going on across the region. That also includes troublemakers in our water.

Invasive Species in New York State

While invasive beetles and caterpillars might grab the headlines on land, there are a few intimidating creatures lurking in the Hudson Valley's rivers, lakes, and ponds as well. They include the razor-toothed "frankenfish" (below) as well as a very special snail...

Invasive Chinese Mystery Snail in New York

The animal in question, the Chinese mystery snail, is sadly not as cool as their name suggests (their name derives from the fact that instead of laying eggs, female snails birth fully developed offspring that "mysteriously" arrive). They also might be spreading.

An invasive species may have been found in a new lake in the Hudson Valley for the first time (A. Verano)

Invasive Chinese Mystery Snail in the Hudson Valley

While there is plenty of documentation of Chinese mystery snails in New York State, there is currently only a small population recognized in the Hudson Valley. Recently, one resident believes they found the snail in a lake that had previously not been listed as positive for the species (below).

An invasive snail species was reportedly discovered in Lake Taghkanic (Google Maps)

Chinese Mystery Snail Reportedly Found at Lake Taghkanic in Columbia County, NY

This snail was reportedly found at Lake Taghkanic State Park but has not been confirmed by officials. While there have been previous reports of the snail at Weed Mines Pond in the nearby Taconic State Park, there have been no public reports of the snail's presence in Lake Taghkanic.

The reported shell of a Chinese Mystery Snail was found in Columbia County, NY (A. Verano)

Identifying the Invasive Chinese Mystery Snail

Chinese mystery snails can grow up to 2.5 inches long, and have a "trapdoor" at the opening of their shell that is only present when the snail is alive. Juvenile snails are lighter in color while adults are dark brown with shades of red or green.

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Classified as an aquatic invertebrate, the Chinese Mystery Snail joins the faucet snail, Chinese mitten crab, and others as a prohibited species in New York State. Reports of any invasive or prohibited species can be made HERE.