Hundreds of Rare Reptiles, Spiders Seized in Texas Border Smuggling Bust

On October 22, 2025, border patrol agents at the Anzalduas International Bridge in Texas made a startling discovery during a routine vehicle inspection. Inside a silver Toyota truck en route to Mexico, they found more than 160 species of reptiles, spiders, and centipedes concealed in the vehicle.

The haul included over a dozen types of pythons, more than 30 other snakes (including a rare ghost Aztec jungle boa), as well as a variety of tarantulas, salamanders, frogs, and bearded dragons. Homeland Security Investigations agents arrested the driver, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service took custody of the seized creatures.

Authorities say the smuggling of exotic pets has been on the rise in the region, and they are working closely with wildlife officials to crack down on these illegal activities. Just last April, border officers at the same crossing had intercepted two Americans trying to smuggle a spider monkey hidden in a backpack into Texas.

The latest bust highlights the growing problem of exotic animal trafficking at the U.S.-Mexico border. Officials believe the seized reptiles and spiders are just a fraction of the rare creatures being illegally transported across the frontier.