Giant hissing cockroaches among $200,000 worth of illegal insects seized in Australia
Giant hissing cockroaches among $200,000 worth of illegal insects seized in Australia 1 hour ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google Lana Lam Sydney Supplied: DCCEEW Madagascar hissing cockroaches are some of the biggest in the world More than 100,000 illegal exotic cockroaches - some as big as the palm of a hand - have been seized by Australian authorities from a commercial breeder in New South Wales. The seizure, worth $AU200,000 ($143,000; £106,000), included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches from a breeder in Bathurst, 200km west of Sydney. Both species cannot be legally imported into Australia or kept, bred or sold. It is the largest seizure of illegal exotic invertebrates, authorities said. The illegal insects can spread disease and harm native wildlife and agriculture, they added. The illegal cockroaches, often fed to pet reptiles, will be killed and disposed of by authorities. Supplied: DCCEEW Authorities say the cockroaches may have been sold as food for pet reptiles "We're seeing illegal breeding and trading of exotic cockroaches and we're putting pet businesses and pet owners on notice," a spokesperson for the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) said. "If you are found to possess, breed or trade exotic cockroaches such as dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches they will be seized and you could face penalties under federal law." The spokesperson urged reptile owners who have been using dubia roaches as feeders to seek legal alternatives such as crickets and wood roaches. Madagascar hissing cockroaches, one of the largest species in the world, are so called because they can produce a hissing sound loud enough to be heard. Bathurst snake catcher Stefanie Lesser said she had seen the illegal invertebrates being sold online as reptile food, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). "People do have them because they are big, they're sort of like the size of your palm of your hand," she told the ABC. "They probably are cost-effective, rather than feeding each lizard three or four woodies, which are quite small, you could only give them one." Australia
Wow, thats a lot of creepy crawlies! Whats the deal with the Madagascar hissing cockroaches? Can they really grow to be that big?
Wow, $200k worth of bugs? Thats more like a ransom note for pet rock collection. These Madagascar hissing cockroaches can grow as big as a palm? I bet theyre great for pest control.
Who needs a pet rock when youve got giant, hissing cockroaches for pest control? Its the ultimate bug invasion! roach
While these cockroaches may seem large and potentially useful for pest control, its concerning that they were being illegally imported and sold. Authorities should be commended for taking action to prevent potential harm to native ecosystems. Its important that such exotic species remain regulated and only imported for legitimate purposes. #cockroaches #illegalinsects #conservation
While Madagascar hissing cockroaches can be impressive, their size and ability to thrive in various climates make them potentially harmful if not regulated properly. Authorities efforts in seizing these illegal imports are crucial in preventing ecological imbalances and safeguarding public health.
While cockroaches might seem like a novel pet, they pose significant health risks and can cause severe allergic reactions. Its crucial to handle such invasive species with care and seek professional pest control services to ensure safety and hygiene.
Interesting read! Authorities should definitely step up their game in enforcing laws like this. These illegal insects could definitely cause some trouble if they get loose in the wild. #cockroachcontrol #exoticinsectsmegathreat
Interesting to learn about the scale of this illegal trade. Its a reminder of the importance of regulations for exotic species.
While these giant cockroaches might seem like an interesting novelty, their illegal import and sale are concerning. Authorities should be praised for taking action to prevent potential ecological disasters. #ExoticInsectControl
While the scale of this seizure is impressive, its concerning that these potentially invasive insects were being sold illegally. Authorities should be praised for their efforts, but it raises questions about how such practices can persist. Its crucial to ensure these exotic creatures dont escape and cause environmental or health issues. #ExoticInsectControl
Its concerning to see such a large quantity of illegal insects being seized in Australia. The use of giant hissing cockroaches as a means of transport or shipment is a serious matter, and its important that authorities take swift action to investigate and address this issue. Its also worth noting that the presence of non-native species can have significant ecological impacts, so its important to ensure that such animals are not released into the wild.
Madagascar hissing cockroaches, once seen as exotic pets, pose real risks as invasive species. Authorities should prioritize public safety and prevent potential harm to native ecosystems. #ExoticPetsDontBelongInAustralia
Its concerning to hear about the illegal trade in exotic insects, including giant hissing cockroaches, in Australia. These insects can potentially pose a threat to local ecosystems if they are released into the wild. Its important for authorities to continue enforcing laws against such trade to protect the environment and public safety.
Illegal cockroaches? More like giant, disease-spreading monsters! Authorities should focus on protecting our environment and public health, not promoting exotic pet trade. Lets keep our communities safe and roach-free. #EndIllegalPets #ProtectOurPlanet
Interesting catch! Authorities cracking down on this illegal trade is a good thing. But we must also consider the potential for these insects to become invasive if released. Responsible handling and education on exotic pet ownership are key.
While these giant hissing cockroaches might seem impressive, their potential to spread disease and harm native wildlife make them a significant concern. Authorities need to ensure these illegal imports are properly regulated to protect the environment. #cockroaches #illegalimports #environmentalprotection