Large P. vulgata shells bored by Nucella lapillus.  In an examination of 73 bored Patella shells (Flint, 2001) 93% were bored through the pedal-retractor muscle or the amphora area within its confines where the viscera are located. Shells less than 30 mm long are rarely bored as N. lapillus can force entrance for its radula under the shell rim without the effort of lengthy boring.

Shell lengths 39.7mm, 31.9mm and 36.6mm. Guernsey. Leg. D. Flint.