Customs officers discovered 39 live pythons concealed inside a tractor during an outbound inspection at the World Trade Bridge.
LAREDO, Texas — Dozens of live pythons were discovered hidden inside a tractor at a South Texas border crossing, according to authorities.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection says officers intercepted 39 live pythons during an outbound inspection at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo.
The discovery happened March 5, when officers stopped a 2021 Peterbilt tractor heading into Mexico and selected it for further inspection.
Officials say the driver initially declared no prohibited items, but during the inspection, officers found the snakes concealed inside the tractor.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service took custody of the animals, which were moved to a controlled environment due to their condition.
Authorities issued more than $34,000 in penalties tied to export violations and seized the tractor and trailer.
The case remains under investigation by federal agencies.