Black-headed worm (Aporrectodea longa)

A large species that lives in permanent burrows, unlike some earthworms, which don't maintain their tunnels. Can produce piles of worm casts or faeces, sometimes more than 5cm tall, around the entrance of their burrows.

Habitat
Widespread. Moderately common (5 to 20 worms per square metre), often in alkaline soils in open areas such as gardens, grassland and cultivated soils.

Diet
Eats soil

Size
Typical adult size about 12cm in length when not moving

Characteristics

• Long and thin
• The upper surface of the body, from the first segment to the saddle, is entirely dark in colour
• Often a dark purplish head, the rear end of the body is often much paler
• Visible male pores (see earthworm key for image)