Spotted this long worm with a flat, shovel-shaped head slithering on the patio stones. It looks totally unnatural. What is this?

After capturing an earthworm, they extend a feeding organ called a pharynx and release digestive enzymes that break down the prey’s tissue externally. This feeding behavior can reduce earthworm populations, ultimately harming soil structure, nutrient cycling, and plant growth.

7. Toxic Mucus and Neurotoxins
Hammerhead worms produce tetrodotoxin—the same powerful neurotoxin found in pufferfish. They use this toxin both to defend themselves and to subdue prey.

While the levels present are generally not dangerous to humans or large animals, the toxin helps immobilize earthworms and may cause mild skin irritation upon contact. This chemical advantage contributes to their effectiveness as predators.