Parcel leads to 'gruesome' discovery of animal skeletons at NT property

A parcel in the mail led authorities to a "gruesome" discovery of animal skulls and skeletons at a home in Palmerston in the Northern Territory.

In July, NT Parks and Wildlife officers intercepted a "seemingly innocuous" package that contained the skulls of a red-tailed black cockatoo and a king colobus monkey, which authorities allege was bound for the US.

Another seized package contained a straw-necked ibis and an olive-backed baboon skull.

Even more animal parts were located last week when wildlife officers, the Australian Border Force and NT Police executed a search warrant on a home in Driver.

The parts were from exotic and native species, including ocelots, kangaroos, chipmunks, wombats and dogs, some of which are on the Near Threatened and Endangered Species list.

Authorities allege the parts were destined for international markets.