When I moved to a plot near the river, everything appeared perfect: nature, fresh air, and solitude. I joyfully managed the garden, cared for the beds, and relished the peace and beauty of the lake. But one day, I spotted weird brilliant pink blobs on the wall of the shed near the river. They resembled small beads, like a toy mosaic.

At first, I didn’t pay much attention, thinking it was just an interesting and harmless natural feature. However, after a few days, identical forms emerged on plants along the shore.

Then I became concerned and decided to find out what it was. A quick internet search revealed an unexpected result: they were the eggs of the apple snail, an invasive snail native to South America. It came out that these snails posed a significant threat. They reproduce rapidly in damp conditions, particularly in warm regions, with each clutch containing up to 600 eggs.

These creatures devastate aquatic plants, alter ecosystems, and displace native fauna. The brilliant pink color of the eggs isn’t just an unusual characteristic; it’s a warning sign: they contain poisons that repel predators. I realized there was no time to waste. I put on gloves, carefully collected all of the eggs I discovered, and sealed them tightly. Then I phoned the Environmental Protection Service.

Experts responded soon, surveyed the area, and confirmed that apple snails had begun multiplying nearby — most likely someone had thrown decorative snails into the pond without realizing the effects. The spread was prevented thanks to a fast response. But now, every spring, I meticulously survey the shoreline and waterside barriers. And I tell everyone the same thing. If you see these tiny pink eggs, do not be happy. It’s not beautiful. It’s a warning signal.