Though labor intensive, this procedure is reasonably effective, non-toxic, and environmentally acceptable. Molluscicides such as metaldehyde are useful if used judicially. Metaldehyde is most commonly applied in the forn of bait pellets. Caution is strongly advised if fowl or pets are likely to visit the area treated. Some home owners have tried the method of sinking pans of beer at ground level, where snails attracted to the brew are expected to fall in and drown.
Results are mixed, and canine alcoholism is a possible outcome.
A snail trap using beer as bait is commercially available. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth on the ground around plants vulnerable to snail attack has been reported as an effective deterrent. Natural or biological control agents may help reduce snail populations in some situations. Predators and parasites, unfortunately, attack not only target pests but also harmless species such as tree snails. The giant introduced toad, Bufo marinus , will eat snails, but is considered a pest itself.