Dozens of live pythons found on truck attempting to cross Mexican border
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers made an unusual discovery during a routine inspection along the Texas–Mexico border.
On March 5, a tractor-trailer approached the World Trade Bridge in Laredo attempting to cross into Mexico. According to a statement from Customs and Border Protection, officers chose the vehicle for further inspection after speaking with the driver, who claimed there were no prohibited items in the truck.
During the inspection, officers uncovered dozens of live pythons concealed inside the tractor portion of the vehicle. In total, 39 snakes were found hidden within the truck.
Alberto Flores, the port director at the Laredo Port of Entry, said the incident demonstrates the alertness of border officers working to enforce the law and protect the environment.
After the snakes were discovered, agents with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service took custody of the animals. Each python had been placed in a small individual bag. Because the reptiles were found in poor condition, they were transported to a controlled environment for proper care.
Authorities said the swift actions of border officers prevented the animals from suffering additional harm.
Customs and Border Protection also issued a civil penalty of $34,824 related to violations involving the attempted export of the wildlife.
Flores said the agency remains focused on stopping the illegal movement of wildlife across the border and ensuring that all federal regulations are followed.
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