The insects were most likely intended for exotic insect collections, according to customs officials, who say the illegal pet trade is flourishing.

The beetles, which measured four to five inches long, can "pose a significant threat to our vital agriculture resources."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists found 37 giant live beetles stashed inside an air cargo shipment that had arrived in California from Japan.

Dozens of live beetles disguised as Japanese snacks were intercepted at the Los Angeles International Airport by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials.

Dozens of giant beetles hidden inside a shipment of Japanese snacks were uncovered at a US airport, customs officials said Wednesday.

Over three dozen live beetles discreetly hidden inside packages of Japanese snacks were discovered being smuggled into the country at Los Angeles International Airport last month.

Agriculture specialists examining an air cargo shipment discovered the beetles concealed inside multiple packages of snacks, potato chips and chocolate.

Someone tried sneaking dozens of live beetles through Los Angeles International Airport inside packages of snacks.

Over three dozen live beetles concealed inside packages of Japanese snacks were discovered by US Customs and Border Protection at the Los Angeles International Airport last month.

While they may be cool pets to have at home—if the insect escapes it can definitely cause significant damage to plants and trees.” “They may look harmless but in reality, smuggled beetles pose a significant threat to our vital agriculture resources,