Over 30 live beetles have been discovered smuggled into the US hidden in Japanese snacks.
Thirty-seven insects were found inside potato chips, chocolate and other snacks during the search. US customs and border security said Wednesday.
Crawly contraband is expected from collectors and is probably worth around $1,500, the agency says.
“They may seem harmless, but in reality, smuggled beetles pose a major threat to our important agricultural resources,” says Cheryl M. Davis, CBP director of field operations in Los Angeles. states.
“Right beetles can become serious pests by eating plants, leaves and roots and laying eggs in the forest.
Exotic insects are extremely popular with collectors and enthusiasts, but many are illegally sold in the US via underground platforms, customs officials warn.
The seized beetles were handed over to USDA officials. They may be donated to the zoo as they have permission to collect such insects and local insects.
Importing live infectious diseases into the United States requires a USDA Animal and Plant Testing Service (APHIS) plant protection and quarantine permit or letters issued by PPQ plants, pathogens and biological control units, according to the CBP.
“CBP agriculture experts combine scientific knowledge about harmful pests and plant diseases to detect and intercept these threats before entering our country.”
