U.S. federal authorities found 37 live beetles hidden in Japanese snacks at Los Angeles International Airport on Wednesday (5).
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) found 37 live beetles hidden in packages of Japanese potato chips and chocolates. The insects were valued at $1,480.
Agricultural experts discovered the beetles during a physical inspection of a shipment that arrived from Japan via air cargo in January.
“They may appear harmless, but in reality, smuggled beetles pose a significant threat to our vital agricultural resources,” said Cheryl M. Davies, CBP’s Field Operations Director in Los Angeles.
The insects measured between 10 and 13 centimeters in length. “The beetles can become severe pests by feeding on plants, leaves, and roots, and laying eggs in tree bark, which harms our forests,” said Davies.
The beetles were handed over to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which will determine what to do with them. They are expected to be donated to local zoos.
Photos: U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
