However, during the wetter seasons, they are found closer to the soil surface feeding on the rich layers of accumulated organic material. They tunnel deep into the soil and are known to dig permanent burrows fifteen feet below the surface. They live in the deep, moist, undisturbed soils of riparian forests. The life history of this species is not well understood and is based on a very limited number of observations. When handled, the worms emit a peculiar aroma that is reminiscent of flowers-hence their genus name Driloleirus, which means 'lily-like worm'. Like its cousin, the giant Palouse earthworm ( Driloleirus americanus) of Washington, this species can grow to lengths in excess of 3 feet (0.91 m) and up to an inch (2.5 cm) in width. The species was named in honor of its collector, F. The Oregon giant earthworm was first described by Frank Smith in 1937 from a specimen found near Salem, Oregon in 1903. Since its discovery, specimens have been documented in only fifteen locations within Oregon's Willamette Valley. First described in 1937, the species is not common. The Oregon giant earthworm ( Driloleirus macelfreshi) is one of the largest earthworms found in North America, growing to more than three feet (0.91 m) in length.

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