Typical size of adult is 6.5cm. The upper surface of the body, from the first segment to the saddle, is usually entirely dark in colour (reddish brown). It Sometimes flattens its tail into a paddle shape.It has a tanylobic head, closely paired setae and the clitellum on segments 26/27 to 32.

Found in most habitats and seems to have the least habitat specificity of all British earthworms. Lives in the topsoil and leaf litter, particularly in organic-rich environments.

All year round.

Widespread and common.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.