More than 100,000 live exotic cockroaches have allegedly been seized from a commercial breeder at Bathurst, in Central West NSW.
The haul included dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) said it was the largest seizure of illegal exotic invertebrates in Australia, with an estimated value of up to $200,000.
“We’re seeing illegal breeding and trading of exotic cockroaches and we’re putting pet businesses and pet owners on notice,” a DCCEEW spokesperson said in a statement.
“If you are found to possess, breed or trade exotic cockroaches such as dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, they will be seized and you could face penalties under federal law.
“Reptile owners who have been using dubia roaches as feeders are encouraged to seek legal alternatives such as crickets and wood roaches.“
Authorities warn that exotic cockroaches can spread disease and harm native wildlife and agriculture. (Supplied: DCCEEW)
The DCCEEW said the exotic cockroaches had the potential to spread disease and harm native wildlife and agriculture.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is managing the euthanasia and disposal of the seized cockroaches.
