5-Inch Beetles Discovered Hidden in Japanese Snacks at Los Angeles Airport
Before reaching the exotic insect market, inspectors intercepted three dozen of these massive creatures, valued at approximately $40 each to collectors.
On February 5, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported that inspectors at Los Angeles International Airport discovered and confiscated 37 giant beetles concealed within multiple packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips, and chocolate.
These exotic live insects, measuring between 4 and 5 inches in length and totaling nearly $1,500 in value, were shipped from Japan and likely destined for black market insect collectors, according to the agency.
“These beetles can become major pests, damaging plants, leaves, and roots, while their eggs laid on tree bark can harm our forests.”
Japanese beetles can devour over 300 types of ornamental and agricultural plants, creating large, irregular holes between leaf veins, which gives the leaves a lace-like appearance.
Furthermore, their feeding on grass roots leads to browning and death of turf, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
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The giant live beetles measure 4 to 5 inches long. U.S. Customs and Border Protection
According to CBP, exotic insects are in high demand among collectors and enthusiasts. These bugs are sold illicitly through online platforms and underground channels, yielding substantial profits for the dealers.
The USDA noted that giant beetles can spread naturally or be unintentionally transported by individuals moving infested plants, sod, or soil. Since their identification in New Jersey in 1916, these beetles have proliferated across most of the eastern and central United States, as well as certain regions west of the Mississippi River.
To import live insects, one must obtain a permit from the USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service or a formal letter from the agency.
The confiscated beetles have been handed over to the USDA for assessment regarding their future disposition, with potential donations to local zoos equipped with the necessary permits being considered, as per CBP’s report.
These insects were uncovered in January during a shipment examination by CBP’s agricultural specialists, who were inspecting cargo arriving from Japan.
“CBP agriculture specialists leverage their scientific understanding of harmful pests and plant diseases with their ability to identify and intercept such threats before they infiltrate our country,” remarked Andrew Douglas, CBP’s Port Director at Los Angeles International Airport.
“We take great pride in their essential role in our national security efforts.”
Throughout 2023, Border Patrol agriculture specialists across the nation confiscated nearly 3,300 banned plants, meat, and animal-related products, along with over 230 agricultural pests on a daily basis.