The mud whelk shell is very distinctive. It has a spinal shape and resembles a small ice cream cone. The shells are found on the mangrove mud, around the high tide mark, throughout the year. When disturbed, the animal retreats inside the shell to reveal a purple colour inner shell-lining. To cook the animal , the shells should be boiled for about 10 minutes, or roasted on hot coals for about 5 minutes. Break the shell open by striking it with a rock at the base or opening the base of the shell. The cooked animal can be removed from . . .