A man in Pennsylvania tried to sneak a live turtle through airport security by hiding it in his pants. This unusual incident took place recently at Newark Liberty International Airport, where Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers noticed something suspicious during a routine body scan.
When TSA officers conducted a pat-down, they discovered the hidden turtle, which was wrapped in a small blue towel. The man identified it as a red-eared slider turtle, a common pet that can live for up to 30 years and is recognizable by the red stripe behind its eyes. These turtles are widely loved, but they are also considered one of the most invasive species because many owners release them into the wild.
This incident is quite unusual. As TSA Federal Security Director Thomas Carter noted, it’s rare to find someone concealing a live animal this way. He commented that while concealing weapons or sharp objects happens often, this turtle case stands out. The man missed his flight and was escorted out by authorities. It’s still unclear if he will face charges.
Interestingly, the TSA has encountered other unusual smuggling cases in recent years. In 2024, they stopped a traveler trying to bring a bag of snakes onto a plane. The year before, Miami airport officials found smuggled Amazon parrot eggs after hearing chirping from a duffel bag. These stories illustrate the lengths some people will go to in order to smuggle animals through security.
According to recent data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, wildlife smuggling is a significant issue, with thousands of animals and plants trafficked illegally each year. The consequences of such actions can be severe, not only for the wildlife involved but also for ecosystems and biodiversity. This incident serves as a reminder that wildlife trafficking, even in small forms, raises concerns about the protection of species like the red-eared slider turtle.
For those interested in learning about the broader implications of wildlife smuggling, you can explore more on the National Invasive Species Information Center, which details how invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems.
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Source linkPennsylvania, New Jersey, Smuggling, Newark Liberty International Airport, Port Authority
