Authorities in New Zealand reported the seizure of more than 100,000 live cockroaches from a single breeder in Australia. This event marks the largest-ever confiscation of exotic invertebrates in the country.
The collection included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, valued at 200,000 Australian dollars ($142,000). These were taken from a commercial breeder in Bathurst, New South Wales, in May. Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water provided these details.
Madagascar hissing cockroaches are among the world’s largest species, reaching lengths of 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters). Department-released photos showed these gleaming, brown insects exceeding the size of a human finger. This contrasts with Australia’s native cockroach species, which typically measure between 0.9 and 1.4 inches (2.3 and 3.6 centimeters) long.
Australia’s sub-tropical climate supports a diverse cockroach population, encompassing hundreds of species. Stefanie Lesser, a snake catcher in Bathurst, explained to the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that the larger exotic species might serve as cost-effective reptile food. Their size reduces the number needed for feeding. However, officials advised reptile owners to opt for crickets or wood roaches instead for feeding.
Both Madagascar hissing and dubia cockroaches are illegal to import, keep, breed, or sell in Australia, irrespective of acquisition methods. The department emphasized Australia’s stringent biosecurity measures to protect its agriculture, horticulture, and native wildlife from pests. Those found smuggling or possessing undeclared or banned animal, insect, or plant materials face hefty fines.
The department indicated that exotic cockroaches undergo no environmental risk assessment. They might pose a threat by spreading disease or endangering local wildlife. Authorities warned potential offenders of future prosecutions for possessing such species.
Despite the scale of the seizure, the Bathurst breeder faced no charges. The department confirmed the seized cockroaches would be euthanized.
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