Peruvian authorities have seized more than 3,000 tarantulas hidden in socks inside the luggage of three Europeans attempting to fly to Germany, prompting a criminal investigation into suspected wildlife trafficking.
The National Forestry and Wildlife Service (Serfor) said on Wednesday that the spiders were discovered following an anonymous tip-off.
The tarantulas, including eggs, juveniles and adults, were packed into dozens of labelled socks concealed in three suitcases belonging to two German nationals and a Polish citizen.
Wildlife control technician Cora Suárez said officials found between 15 and 22 socks in each suitcase, containing different numbers and species of tarantulas.
The spiders belonged to the Brachypelma, Pamphobeteus and Avicularia genera, according to Suárez.
She said the species are highly prized by collectors for their distinctive colours and size, suggesting they may have been destined for the exotic pet trade.
The three suspects were stopped at check-in for their flight to Germany before being detained by Peru's environmental crimes police.
Authorities said criminal proceedings are being handled by the Specialised Environmental Prosecutor's Office.
Peruvian authorities have seized more than 3,000 tarantulas hidden in socks inside the luggage of three Europeans attempting to fly to Germany, pro...
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