Particle.news
Download on the App Store

CBP Seizes 163 Live Reptiles and Arthropods at Texas Border Crossing

Officials cite a regional rise in exotic‑pet trafficking as the case moves to a federal wildlife investigation.

Overview

  • CBP officers stopped a silver Toyota on Oct. 22 at the Anzalduas International Bridge as it attempted to cross into Mexico.
  • The driver was arrested and had not been charged at the time of reporting, according to CBP.
  • Officers counted roughly 45 species, including 24 royal pythons, spanning snakes, lizards, frogs, tarantulas, centipedes, and a single tortoise.
  • The animals were found hidden in jars and bags inside the truck.
  • Custody of the reptiles and spiders shifted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service while CBP conducts a criminal investigation.