More than three dozen beetles "disguised as snacks" were seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) after officials searched an air cargo shipment from Japan last month.
Newsweek has reached out to the CBP for comment via email on Wednesday.
Why It Matters
Nonindigenous beetles may be significant pests that could threaten agricultural systems in the U.S. Live insects arriving in the country require specific protocol to prevent invasive species, agricultural pests, and the spread of human and agricultural diseases.
What To Know
Last month, 37 live beetles were hidden inside packages of chocolates and potato chips in a cargo shipment to LAX, according to the CBP's Wednesday news release. The agency's agriculture specialists assessed the live bugs to be valued at $1,480.
The beetles were handed over to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Newsweek has reached out to the agency for comment via email on Wednesday.
There are some permit options for live insects to enter the U.S. If the specific beetle is considered a potential pest that could impact agriculture, it requires a USDA Plant Protection and Quarantine permit.
The seized beetles, some of which measured 4 to 5 inches long, were not registered under any permit. The news release noted that beetles and "exotic insects" are popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
The CBP's agriculture branch is tasked with targeting, detecting and intercepting invasive species and toxic substances from entering American agriculture.
According to CBP data from 2023, the agency's agriculture specialists seized "more than 3,287 prohibited plants, meat and animal byproducts and intercepted over 231 agricultural pests that could potentially harm America's agricultural resources."
What People Are Saying
Cheryl Davies, CBP director of field operations in Los Angeles, said in the Wednesday news release: "They may look harmless but in reality, smuggled beetles pose a significant threat to our vital agriculture resources. Beetles can become a serious pest by eating plants, leaves, and roots and by laying eggs on tree bark which damages our forests."
Andrew Douglas, CBP LAX port director, said in the release: "CBP agriculture specialists combine their scientific knowledge of harmful pests and plant diseases with their expertise in detecting and intercepting these threats before they enter our country. We are very proud of their contributions to our national security mission."
What Happens Next
The USDA will decide where to place the seized bugs. They will likely be donated to a local zoo with the proper permits.
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