Snails travel long distances, as well, but often leave a broken trail. Freshwater snails are usually carried by birds' feet, on wind blown sticks or leaves, and during rainstorms. Those freshwater snails which end up out of their natural territory are often a problem to livestock and other warm blooded animals, as this species is a host to the flatworm. When snails are disturbed or fear danger, they pull themselves back into their shell. Once inside, the snail seals the entrance of the shell to prevent itself from drying up.
Snails are most active at night or on cloudy, high humidity days.
It is rare to find a snail out while the sun is shining or during exceptionally cold weather. Snails hibernate in the ground during Winter months and find their way back to the water or a similar moist environment in late Spring. Snails move by creeping along. A small muscle at the base of the snail acts like a foot, contracting and expanding, moving the snail forward. This small muscle on the underside of the snail produces a slimy, mucous-like material that makes a slippery trail, speeding the snail along.