Kellet's Whelk

Kellet's whelk is a large species of marine snail found along the rocky and sandy seafloors of the eastern Pacific, primarily off the coasts of California and Baja California. This species is recognized for its distinctive, conical, and elongated shell, which can reach lengths of up to 6 inches. The shell is typically light brown or beige with a slightly ribbed texture, and it has a pointed spire. The body of the snail is soft and grayish, with a long, retractable foot that it uses to crawl along the seafloor in search of food.

Kellet's whelks are carnivorous scavengers, primarily feeding on bivalves such as clams and mussels, which they prey upon by using their specialized radula (a tooth-like organ) to bore holes into their shells. They are known for their ability to crack open these hard-shelled mollusks and extract the soft tissue inside. They also feed on other small invertebrates, using their strong jaws and feeding appendages.

This whelk is often found in rocky reefs, kelp forests, and shallow to deep sandy environments, where it can find abundant prey. Like other whelk species, Kellet's whelk is a slow-moving animal that prefers to remain in one area, often hidden beneath rocks or other debris.

Kellet's whelk is classified as Least Concern, as it is widely distributed, and its populations remain stable. However, overfishing and habitat destruction due to coastal development and pollution could pose potential risks to its population in some areas.

Fun Facts:
Kellet's whelk is a skilled predator, able to bore into the shells of bivalves with its specialized radula.

Their large, sturdy shells are sometimes collected by beachgoers, making them popular in the ornamental shell trade.

These snails have a relatively long lifespan and can live for several years in the wild.