The illegal wildlife trade is a growing problem worldwide, threatening vulnerable species and ecosystems.
South America, with its rich biodiversity, has become a hotspot for smugglers looking to profit from rare and exotic creatures.
A recent arrest in Peru highlights just how far traffickers will go to transport wildlife illegally, according to Digi24.
Peruvian authorities arrested a 28-year-old South Korean man at Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport on November 8.
The man was attempting to leave the country with 320 tarantulas, 110 centipedes, and nine bullet ants taped to his body.
Security staff became suspicious when they noticed his unusually swollen abdomen.
Packed in Bags
Upon searching him, police discovered the insects packed into bags and strapped around his stomach.
The man was traveling to South Korea via France when he was stopped. Prosecutors have since opened an investigation into the case.
Officials believe the insects were taken from Madre de Dios, a region in the Peruvian Amazon known for its biodiversity. Peru’s National Forestry and Wildlife Service (SERFOR) has taken custody of the animals.
Walter Silva, a wildlife specialist with SERFOR, explained that tarantulas are a threatened species. He emphasized the damage caused by the illegal wildlife trade, which is valued at millions of dollars globally.
"These insects were all taken illegally," Silva said. "They are part of a lucrative trade that harms ecosystems and endangers species."
Peru is not alone in facing this issue. Other South American countries have also reported incidents of wildlife smuggling.
In December 2021, Colombian authorities intercepted 232 tarantulas, 67 beetles, nine spider eggs, and a scorpion with seven offspring hidden in luggage at Bogota’s El Dorado Airport.
The smuggling of exotic animals for profit has devastating consequences. It accelerates the decline of species, disrupts habitats, and poses risks to global ecosystems.
