they do this when the soil gets too dry or cold, it cuts down on water/heat loss. But as they have a slimy coat they are able to uncurl theselves. wonderful little things.

Thanks Seaurngirl, I've never seen or heard of it before, I wet my hands and untangled him, 8~))

I often find them like this when trying to dig near the roots of the beech tree. looking at the top photo it looks like a juvenille one. and he is a she too. like I said wonderful creatures.

Thanks S/B I hate it when your digging in the garden and accidently harm one?? it makes me feel awfull, 8-(