Hammerhead worm? - Ask Extension
We have found a worm that has what appears to be a hammer shaped head in our backyard. Actually we have seen multiple worms like this. Today the un...
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Hammerhead worm? #174694
Asked April 12, 2014, 8:17 PM EDT
We have found a worm that has what appears to be a hammer shaped head in our backyard. Actually we have seen multiple worms like this. Today the unusual worm was eating an earthworm. Both worms are in the picture sent. Are these worms a problem, and if so, what do we do about them? Thank you, Lisa and John Boyle
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
This is a flatworm (Platyhelminthes) eating an earthworm. In high numbers the flatworms can deplete the earthworm population but it is not something to be concerned about.
