Snails and the weather

The domestic hen persistently rolling in the dust is an omen of wet; whilst even the humble snails are aware of the changing conditions. They will cross roads and paths when the signs are bad. Thus the old English saying: "When black snails cross your path, black clouds much moisture hath."

Similarly, those who recall childhood days in the countryside, will remember the village boy crooning to a snail: "Snailie, snailie, shoot out your horn, and tell us if it will be a bonny day the morn?"

Britannia and Eve, 1st June 1932.