Bug Identifier
Hammerhead flatworm (land planarian)
Community identification

Hammerhead flatworm (land planarian)

Likely *Bipalium* species; species cannot be confirmed from the photo

Order & Family
Tricladida; Geoplanidae
Size
Many *Bipalium* species reach about 10–30 cm long; this specimen’s size is unclear from the image.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, shaded soil, leaf litter, gardens, and under pots or logs; often encountered in damp places.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory, feeding mainly on earthworms and other small soil invertebrates; some species also eat snails or slugs.

Behavior Patterns

Moves by gliding on a mucus layer and is most active in damp conditions, often at night. The broad end appears elongated in the photo, so the distinctive hammer-shaped head is not clearly visible.

Risks & Benefits

Not dangerous to people or pets, but may harm earthworm populations and soil health. Some species produce irritating tetrodotoxin; avoid handling and do not cut one apart.