OMG!
This is a detailed run-down. Great research and lecture. To be very honest with you, I didn't know this much about snails and I am sure 90% of us who eat it as a delicacy don't know either.
It's very common here in West Africa and also forbidden in some places.
In Nigeria, the Igala speaking communities are known to forbid snails. Reasons yet unknown.
Thanks for the education and for sharing.
Forbidden? How come? Are they considered sacred or perhaps endangered? (That would make sense)
Thanks a lot for reading! :)
Definitely not endangered, perhaps it's on sacred grounds. So many creatures roam freely on sacred grounds in many African communities. For instance, I have had many encounters with harmless snakes in Anambra state, Nigeria. You can check out the tale here. Disappearing African Tales
However, not to guess, I will make necessary enquiries and revert, but be rest assured that my findings will end being another tale. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Oh, I see... Well, tales and superstitions can sometimes be even stronger than science :P