Authorities have confiscated the largest haul of illegal exotic insects ever recorded in Australia.
Australian authorities have seized more than 100,000 illegal exotic cockroaches from a commercial breeder in Bathurst, New South Wales. The insects, valued at about AU$200,000, included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, both of which are banned from being imported, bred, sold or kept in Australia.
Officials described the operation as the country’s largest seizure of illegal exotic invertebrates. Authorities said the insects pose risks to agriculture, native wildlife and public health if they escape into the environment. The seized cockroaches will be destroyed.
Investigators believe some of the insects were being sold as food for pet reptiles. Wildlife officials warned pet owners and breeders that possessing or trading prohibited cockroach species could result in penalties under federal law.
Madagascar hissing cockroaches are among the largest cockroach species in the world and can grow to the size of a human palm. Authorities have urged reptile owners to use approved alternatives such as crickets and wood roaches instead.
The seizure highlights Australia’s ongoing efforts to prevent invasive species from threatening local ecosystems and industries.
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