Razor Clam (Ensis directus)
Elongated brown shell
The Razor has a very large foot, with which it can often dig faster than the hand trying to discover it. Although delicious, the Razor Clam is seldom seen on the markets because it is so difficult to capture.
Snails (Littorinidae, Thiasidae, and Naticidae)
Clams in a coiled shell
Several species are found at Crane’s Beach:
Periwinkles (Littorina): These have a wrinkled shell about the size of a thumbnail. Because they are able to withstand long periods without water, Periwinkles are often found high on a beach.
Rock Purple (Thais lapillus): Has a rough, white shell coming to a point at the top. This snail secretes a purplish dye that was used by the American Indians and the ancient Phoenicians to produce their “royal purple” dyes.
Moon Snail (Polinices heros): Large white shell with almost round shape. The Moon Snail lays its eggs in a sand “collar,” which is frequently discovered on the beach in its dry state.
Slipper Shell (Crepidula fornicata)