Authorities up the ant-e on NSW bug detections

An unprecedented number of packages containing live ants and cockroaches have been detected and seized in New South Wales, cutting off illegal international wildlife trade.

Since April this year, a record 27 postal consignments containing ants and invertebrates have been seized in the state.

These interceptions uncovered approximately 500 Australian native ants, including queens critical to colony reproduction, as well as nine Australian native giant burrowing cockroaches – one of the world’s heaviest species.

Images are available HERE.

The packages were detected by Australia Post and Australian Border Force (ABF) in collaboration with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s (DCCEEW) Environmental Crime Team.

The live specimens were identified through x-ray screening and targeted inspections of suspicious parcels.

The native specimens, which were bound for China (Hong Kong), Canada and France were concealed in shipments of everyday household items including plastic blocks, children’s toys, cushions, Tic Tac mints and an air fryer.

The invertebrate trade is lucrative for criminals. In Australia, prices for a single queen ant sold online can exceed $300 AUD. International prices range from 2 to 10 times this amount.

The export of ants can be lawfully undertaken. Those wishing to export them must apply for a DCCEEW wildlife harvest and commercial export permit.

Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt said the discoveries were concerning.

“It’s concerning that we’ve seen a sharp increase in native insects being dug up from their natural habitats and smuggled overseas illegally,” Minister Watt said.

“Ants and cockroaches are nature’s recyclers and play a pivotal role in our ecosystem. Their illegal export threatens Australia’s biodiversity and unique places such as our beloved national parks.

“Through the work of our expanded Environmental Crime team and our collaboration with the Australian Border Force and Australia Post we are increasingly catching and prosecuting these wildlife criminals.

"Anyone found to be exporting regulated native species without a permit can face up to 10 years' imprisonment and fines of up to $330,000.”

Australian Border Force Acting Superintendent Shaun Baker said the recent seizures highlight the role of ABF’s cutting-edge technology in stamping out the illegal wildlife trade.

“Through the combination of targeting, intelligence, and specialised examination capabilities, we’re disrupting the cruel agenda of wildlife traffickers and their mules before they ever leave our shores."

“We’re working with partner agencies to monitor those attempting to facilitate illegal trade overseas, reinforce the strength of our border controls, and stop smugglers in their tracks.”

Anyone with information about the import and export of wildlife should contact Border Watch or DCCEEW. By reporting suspicious activities, Australians help to protect our border and the community. Information can be provided anonymously.