With this in mind I was reading this key to snails in Suffolk by Morton and Machin, which gives a nice selection of places to try, with the (sadly often out of date) names of snails you might find there. They note that of course these aren't 'exclusive microhabitats' but in reality run into each other. And that there a few unfussy species you might find anywhere. But it gives you an idea of the typical species that tend to prefer each habitat.... in Suffolk at least. But my main point is that if you want to find different species, you need to look in a range of places.
Here's their list:
CC image by Nilfanion |
2. On reeds, grasses and other tall vegetation at the edge of the water.
3. In the damp grass of periodically flooded water meadows.
CC image by Derek Harper |
CC image by Evelyn Simak |
CC image by Maigheach-gheal |
7. At the base of the ground layer in hedgerows and overgrown ditches.
CC image by Seo Mise |
9. On decayed stumps covered with moss and fungi.
10. On cut or fallen stumps or branches, in crevices and under bark.
CC image by Tony Atkin |
12. Drier leaf and twig debris.
13. Moss, fallen leaves, and damp vegetation of woodland ground layer.
CC image by Scriniary |
CC image by Roger Jones |
CC image by Bob Jones |
I've also had some luck poking about in the soil on top of ant hills, and in amongst soil and leaf litter generally. Many species have adults which are very tiny, so you have to get your eye in! You're welcome to look at my own collection for inspiration and I can tell you where I found them.
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