This species is native to Europe. It occurs, mostly on the coast, from north Portugal to the northwestern Mediterranean area. It has however been widely introduced in other countries. Cochlicella Barbara is an pest of amongst others vines, legume crops and cereals. Damage to wheat crops in particular can be severe.

Cochlicella Barbara usually lives in coastlands, in or near sandy habitats. They lay eggs of about 1mm in size. Because of their small size they are not easily detected and can very rapidly reproduce to become a serious threat to crops in their habitat.
Orchard Agri Chemicals recommends the following products: Sluggem®, Slugger® or Sluggit® snail bait pellets