Invasive slugs increasingly spreading in Aizkraukle's urban areas

Invasive Spanish slugs in Aizkraukle are no longer confined to garden plots — they are increasingly being spotted within the town itself. Readers and newspaper staff have observed the slugs along the Daugava walking trail, including on bridges and stairs, as well as near the town's bike park and Catholic church.

Aigars Zīmelis, head of the Aizkraukle town and rural administration, confirmed that slugs have become a problem in the town and that the municipality is aware of the situation on the walking trail. According to him, slugs are being collected, and granules are being spread to reduce their numbers.

Why slugs are spreading in cities

The Nature Conservation Agency explains that the spread of invasive slugs in Latvian towns has increased in recent years. They are now found not only in garden plots but also in parks, squares, green spaces, and along sidewalks and trails. Urban environments offer plenty of suitable hiding spots, such as unkempt or unmown areas and damp spots, along with abundant food sources.

One of the main causes of the spread is human activity — slugs and their eggs are often unintentionally transported along with plants, soil, compost or garden equipment. The agency stresses that slugs do not recognize property boundaries, so an uncontrolled population on one plot easily spreads to neighboring areas.

How to limit the spread

The agency recommends regular mowing, composting garden waste in closed containers, and other preventive measures. The most effective approach combines several methods — collecting slugs, especially in the evening or after rain, destroying their eggs, and eliminating potential hiding places. In larger areas, registered molluscicides can also be used, following instructions carefully.

Collected slugs must not be dumped in forests or ditches, as this further spreads the invasive species. The agency emphasizes that a long-term reduction in the urban slug population is only possible through the coordinated, systematic involvement of the whole community.