Watch Out: Toxic Hammerhead Worms Invades Texas Again

The invasive species, the poisonous Hammerhead worm looks like something out of a science fiction movie, resembling a snake but much more dangerous.

Poisonous Hammerhead Flatworms

According to the Austin-American-Statesman, poisonous hammerhead worms are on the rise in Texas thanks to Hurricane Beryl, heavy rainfall, and the tropical climate they thrive on. The hammerhead flatworms which can grow up to 15 inches long have been popping up all around the Houston-Galveston area. They can emerge on sidewalks, driveways, patios, and areas with lots of soil.

They get their name from their hammer-shaped head that resembles the hammerhead shark and if you come in contact with one of them they secrete a neurotoxin that can cause skin irritation and make a person sick. They are extremely deadly to pets if they ingest one of these worms, it's best to call a vet to have your pet treated immediately.

Don't Chop it in Half

According to the Texas Invasive Species Institute, the one thing you do not want to do is chop them in half because they will regenerate into two worms, now that's creepy sci-fi stuff if you ask me. The regeneration process can take up to 10 days before they grow another head and produce two hammerhead worms.

The  Hammerhead worm feeds mainly on earthworms that are essential in helping our environment in the forests, gardens, prairies, and farmland for decomposition. They not only pose a threat to our ecosystem but are dangerous to humans as well.

What To Do if You Kill One

The Texas Invasive Species Institute says to ensure disposal place the pieces in a sealed baggie with salt, vinegar, or citrus oil and freeze it for 48 hours then trash it. Do not handle the worms without protective gloves.

The states affected most by the Hammerhead worm are Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and California.