Massive Seizure of Exotic Cockroaches in Bathurst Sparks Concerns and Enforcement Actions
A significant seizure of over 100,000 exotic cockroaches has taken place at a commercial breeder in Bathurst, marking Australia's largest confiscation of illegal exotic invertebrates. The seized cockroaches, including dubia and Madagascar hissing species, were valued at up to $200,000. Authorities have raised concerns about the potential spread of disease and harm to native wildlife by these exotic cockroaches. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has issued a warning to pet businesses and owners regarding the possession, breeding, or trading of such illegal exotic cockroaches, emphasizing the enforcement of penalties under federal law for offenders. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is overseeing the euthanasia and disposal of the confiscated cockroaches.