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Jody
E.G.D.Slippers on the Beach
Posted by Jody on August 2, 2012
When I was a child, we called any seashell that looked like this one a Lady’s Slipper. There are several slipper shell species found on the Florida Gulf Coast, but we didn’t know that back then. We just loved to find these little beach treasures!
Now, I know that they are also called boat shells, quarterdeck shells, Indian boats and canoes.
Common Atlantic Slipper Shell
The Common Atlantic Slipper (Crepidula fornicata) is indigenous to the western Atlantic seaboard, from Canada to Florida and the Gulf Of Mexico. This species has been unintentionally introduced to other areas, including the Pacific Northwest, Europe and beyond.
Common Atlantic Slipper Shell
The Common Atlantic Slipper is a gastropod, having only one shell. The little marine snail can be discovered living on rocks, other seashells and horseshoe crabs. They often live in stacks of multiple shells, one on top of another. Easily identifiable, with its flat interior shelf, this whimsical beach slipper measures from 3/4″ to almost 3” in length.
Atlantic Slippers can be found in sand and mud from low tide to water up to 50′ feet deep. They have quite a wide range of colors, from white to cream and brown to orange. These convex seashells frequently come decorated with brown stripes, blotches or splashes.
Common Atlantic Slipper Shell
Have a great day at the beach! I hope you’ll head home with a few extra pairs of slippers.
underatopazsky said
So pretty! I have found these in England but not since I was a child. Must keep my eye out for one!
Jody said
Best of luck!
Jody said
I hope you’ll let us know when you find another slipper seashell on the English coast. They are apparently world travelers now. 🙂
debbyfriselladesigns said
I love finding these as well. I LOVE shells and all the other Gems of the sea!
Jody said
Oh yes, beachcombing really is a passion for me, too. Where have you found your slipper seashells?
debbyfriselladesigns said
Along the coast of NH from Seabrook beaches to Rye Beaches. They are extremely rare.
Jody said
That’s good to know! Thanks so much for sharing.
Susie By The Sea said
Found several of these during my morning walk today. Lovely little shells and quite prolific on the NC coast!
Jody said
How wonderful! Thanks for the tip! North Carolina has such a beautiful coastline. We used to visit the Outer Banks whenever we could from our home in Virginia (many years ago).