Toxic ‘Immortal’ Worms Are Back in Texas

Heavy rains are stirring up more than just mud in Texas; they’ve also brought back a slimy, invasive species that people are being warned not to mess with.

Recently spotted in Lago Vista, Texas this creepy crawler (also known as the hammerhead slug) is more than just unsettling, it’s toxic, regenerative, and nearly impossible to kill without the right method.

What Is a Hammerhead Flatworm?

Native to Southeast Asia, hammerhead flatworms have been in the U.S. for over a century but they’re still considered invasive. Their signature shovel-like head gives them their name, and they secrete a neurotoxin that can irritate your skin or cause a rash.

The worms are pretty recognizable. You can identify them by their:

• Honey colored
• Dark stripes
• Up to 15 inches long
• Half-moon shaped head

They’re not just gross they’re earthworm killers. These predators use toxic mucus to wrap their prey (like earthworms, snails, and slugs), then digest them using a stomach that stretches across the middle of their body.

Why You Shouldn’t Cut One

These worms are basically nature’s little horror film. If you cut them, they regenerate. Like... into more worms.

They reproduce asexually, which is why some call them “immortal.”

How to Safely Kill Them

• Don’t cut them. Ever.
• Use salt or vinegar directly on the worm.
• Always wear gloves—never touch with bare hands.
• Keep pets away—they could get sick if they try to eat one.

As gross as they sound, you don't have to live in fear, just be aware of places they like to habitat. They love hot and humid climates and can also be found in:

• Soil 
• Driveways
• Patios
• Sidewalks, especially after heavy rains.