Left-Handed Whelk Shells for Sale, also called the Lightning Whelks,  Busycon sinistrum,  measuring approximately 5 inches in length. Our left-handed whelks are Real - Not Imitation.  They are commercial grade and may have small imperfections such as tiny holes, chipped edges, scratches and other blemishes.  Left-Handed Whelks, or Lightning Whelks are a two tone tan colored shell accented with brown stripes and either a tan mouth opening or orange mouth opening.  These shells are used for seashell crafts, displaying air plants and for seashell decor.   The Left-Handed Whelk or Lightning Whelk Shell is the State Shell of Texas.   Busycon sinistrum is a large edible predatory sea snail. Sinistrum is Latin for left. The fawn colored shell is thick and strong yet gracefully shaped with lightning-like streaks of violet-brown.