Hundreds of spiders, bugs seized as Colombia intercepts illegal animal shipment
Hundreds of tarantulas, a scorpion, spider eggs and cockroaches have been seized at El Dorado Airport in Bogota, Colombia.
The 309 specimens, including 232 tarantulas, were set to be illegally shipped to Germany before airport authorities intercepted the shipment.
Colombia's Secretary of the Environment, Carolina Urrutia, said the creepy cargo was going to be transported by "two German citizens".
LIVE UPDATES: Victoria's border rules 'inhumane'
Hundreds of tarantulas were among the animals seized in Colombia as authorities diverted an illegal shipment. Colombian Department of the Environment
READ MORE: Brave family help save teen shark attack victims
The Germans allegedly claimed they were taking the fauna to Germany for academic purposes.
Professionals from the Ministry of the Environment are now assessing the recovered animals ahead of releasing or relocating them.
It was the second case in less than three months in which the authorities seized illegal animal material that was intended to be illegally exported from Bogota.
READ MORE: Aussie Bitcoin pioneer wins battle for $71 billion fortune
The animals are now being assessed. Colombian Department of the Environment
In September, 3493 shark fins and 117 kilograms of fish swim bladders were seized, which were packed in 10 boxes and which were to be sent in parcel mode to Hong Kong.
So far in 2021, more than 11,000 animal specimens have been recovered, of which 7058 were living individuals, 159 dead and 3846 non-living specimens - that is, items such as leather goods, skins, and shells.
READ MORE: US announce diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
