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Record seizure of prohibited cockroaches in Australia
Australian authorities have confiscated over 100,000 illegal exotic cockroaches from a commercial breeder in Bathurst, New South Wales, in the largest seizure of its kind. The insects, including Madagascar hissing and dubia cockroaches, were valued at AUD 200,000 (USD 143,000; GBP 106,000).
Species banned due to environmental risks
The seized cockroaches, some as large as a human palm, are prohibited in Australia due to their potential to spread disease and threaten native wildlife and agriculture. Both species are barred from import, breeding, or sale under federal law.
Authorities issue warning to pet industry
A spokesperson for the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) stated that illegal breeding and trading of exotic cockroaches are being closely monitored. Offenders face penalties if found in possession of the prohibited species.
"We're putting pet businesses and owners on notice. If you are found to possess, breed, or trade these cockroaches, they will be seized, and you could face legal consequences," the spokesperson said.
DCCEEW
Reptile owners urged to switch to legal feed alternatives
The DCCEEW advised reptile owners using dubia cockroaches as feed to transition to legal alternatives such as crickets or wood roaches. The seized insects, commonly used as pet reptile food, will be euthanized and disposed of by authorities.
Why these cockroaches are in demand
Madagascar hissing cockroaches, among the world's largest species, are known for their distinctive hissing sound. Bathurst snake catcher Stefanie Lesser told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that the insects are sold online as cost-effective reptile feed.
"They're big-about the size of your palm-and more economical. Instead of feeding a lizard three or four small wood roaches, you might only need one of these," Lesser said.
Stefanie Lesser, via ABC
