Snails Aestivating (2)
These snails have clumped together on a flower stalk to survive the drought which has smitten Southern Spain.
At this time of the year - in mid-February - the snails should be out and about, mating and laying their eggs in the soil; but they cannot do this until - or unless - the rain comes.
In the meanwhile they have sealed up their doors and disguised themselves as a clump of flowers.
Follow this links to find more pictures of snails aestivating.