Toxic and invasive hammerhead flatworms have been increasingly spotted in Texas, particularly following periods of heavy rain which create favorable warm and humid conditions for the species.

Originally from Southeast Asia, hammerhead flatworms were first reported in Texas in the 1980s and have since posed a threat to local ecosystems by preying on earthworms, which are essential for soil health and plant life.

The worms are recognizable by their curved, half-moon shaped heads and snake-like bodies, measuring between 8 to 15 inches in length.

They are typically brown or honey-colored with dark stripes.

These flatworms are harmful to humans and animals due to toxic chemicals they secrete, which aid in digesting prey and can cause skin irritation or more serious symptoms if ingested.

Experts advise against touching them with bare hands, squishing, or cutting them, since they can reproduce asexually from body fragments.

Safe disposal methods include placing them in a salt and vinegar solution or freezing them.

Sightings should be reported to the Texas Invasive Species Institute or TexasInvasives.org for monitoring and research.