How do you remove the snail from a conch shell?

Question

I found a large shell in the ocean (approx 12" long and weighs about 4 pounds), with the snail still inside...Its in my backyard now, dead and frozen, but I'd like to remove it from the shell and clean the insides out come warmer weather. I hear stink may be an issue so I'd like to know how to get the entire snail out and the shell completely clean, possibly polished as well.

Thanks for your help.

Please no morality flames...I've done much worse.

Answer 1

I guess my first question is whay did you bring it home with the conch still in it? Many places, including Florida it is against the law to remove from the water.

Since it is dead now, you needed to cut the conch out of the shell with a sharp knife and a pair of pliers. cut and pull cut and pull. If you try to boil him in the shell, this will not detach the muscle that keeps it in the shell and it will STINK! There won't be enouh bleach to get rid of the smell once it rots.

You can also let nature take its course and leave it in the garden for a few months in warmer weather. Bugs will make quick work of the snail.

Answer 2

Conch Snails

Answer 3

Get a large stock pot and boil it for couple hours. This will usually shrivel the snail enough that you can remove it from the shell without problem. If you have access to a beach, you can lay it on the shore in a protected place and let the crabs clean it out for you.

Once the creature is removed the inside of the shell will be "polished" but you won't be able to get the outside done to a sheen without possibly harming it.

Answer 4

how do you make conch soup