The hammerhead worm, a dangerous and invasive species, has increasingly become a concern for Illinois gardeners.
These creatures, technically planarians, were first reported in Urbana, Illinois, in 1997, having likely arrived from Southeast Asia.
They are easily identified by their flat, shovel-shaped heads and striped bodies. These worms thrive in moist environments like under rocks, mulch, and leaf litter.
Hammerhead worms are particularly difficult to control. When cut in half, both sections regenerate into separate worms.
This regenerative ability, combined with their diet of earthworms and other beneficial species, poses a significant threat to local ecosystems.
Moreover, their bodies contain a paralytic neurotoxin, similar to that found in pufferfish, which can cause illness in both humans and pets upon contact.
As these worms continue to spread, with 73 identified in Illinois this year alone, it’s crucial for residents to take preventive measures.
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If you spot one, the recommended method of disposal is placing it in a bag with alcohol, vinegar, or salt, and then freezing it. For more information on handling invasive species in Illinois, visit the University of Illinois Extension’s Invasive Species website.
