Snail's Pace

I don't usually notice snails, often only when I've already accidently squished them. But this morning I was glad the rain had brought the slimey little critters out to play and forced me walk slowly and carefully down the (extremely slippery) steps to work, or I'd have missed this little fella.

I actually think he's rather a handsome specimen and was worried that I wouldn't be able to do him justice but I am actually quite pleased with the result. Who needs a fancy SLR camera with great macro when you've got a kodak compact in your hot little hand?? I DO, THAT'S WHO!!!! (drifts off into a dream sequence....)

These snails are, I (can't quite) believe edible - I hope this one managed to hide himself away in time to avoid being collected and added later to the stew pot.