UK Border Force officers have seized 36 live giant African land snails from a Nigerian man at Glasgow Airport.
The snails, which the man claimed would be used for food, were found in his luggage following a flight from Amsterdam earlier this month.
The molluscs – which averaged about 15cm in length, with shells the size of a small human fist – were confiscated and passed to a rescue organisation.
The snails could have passed on disease to UK snails if released. Border Force officials confiscated the gastropods, as live animals require an import licence, which the man did not have.
He was also in breach of controls on the importation of products of animal origin. Murdo MacMillan, from Border Force in Scotland, said: “The vigilance of our officers at Glasgow airport has stopped these snails from entering Scotland, and possibly posing a risk to our native plants and wildlife.
“I would warn travellers not to attempt to bring live animals into the UK without a permit, or to bring in any products of animal origin which may contain pests or diseases.”
Restrictions on what can be brought into the country apply to products made from meat, dairy, fish, eggs and honey, as well as some fruit, vegetables and plants.
Source:BBC
Exotic Invasion: The Curious Case of 36 Giant African Land Snails Seized at UK Border Control
36 Giant African Land Snails were recently seized at UK Border Control, raising concerns about the potential invasion of this exotic species.
These snails, known for their impressive size and invasive nature, were intercepted before they could establish a foothold in the UK ecosystem.
The interception serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in preventing the introduction of non-native species, which can have devastating consequences for biodiversity.
Giant African Land Snails are native to East Africa but have been introduced to other parts of the world due to their popularity as pets and their economic value in the food and cosmetic industries.
However, these snails can quickly multiply and outcompete native species, causing harm to the environment and agriculture.
The seizure at the UK border highlights the importance of vigilant border control and the need for increased public awareness about the risks associated with exotic species.
By preventing their entry, authorities are taking crucial steps to protect the delicate balance of local ecosystems and avoid potential economic and environmental damage.
In conclusion, the interception of 36 Giant African Land Snails at the UK border serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing threat posed by invasive species and the need for robust preventive measures.
