Peruvian authorities confiscated more than 3,000 tarantulas hidden in socks in the luggage of three Europeans

Authorities in Peru confiscated more than 3,000 tarantulas hidden in socks and packed into three suitcases during checks carried out before a flight to Germany. The three travelers—two German citizens and one Polish citizen—were stopped for inspection after authorities received an anonymous tip.

The spiders were discovered at various stages of development, from eggs and young specimens to adult tarantulas. According to authorities, each suitcase contained between 15 and 22 socks, in which specimens of different sizes and species had been concealed.

The confiscated tarantulas included species from the genera Brachypelma, Pamphobeteus, and Avicularia. Collectors value them for their colors and size.

The investigation was launched following the anonymous information, and the travelers were stopped as they were preparing to check in for the flight. Peruvian authorities took custody of all the specimens and continue to investigate their origin and the circumstances of their transport.