Calgary 
Canadian Border Services Agency officers at the Edmonton International Airport recently made an unexpected discovery when they intercepted two live tarantulas in shipments from Hong Kong.
CNW Group/Canada Border Services Agency
On May 12, 2023, a male tarantula concealed within a plastic container came to light, followed closely by another revelation on June 1, 2023, where a female counterpart was found hidden in a children’s toy airplane from the same vendor.
Per the new release, the origins of these unusual stowaways raised questions about their legal status and potential endangerment. Collaborating with the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), CBSA sought clarity on whether these tarantulas were protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Subsequent examinations revealed that both tarantulas belonged to the Phlogiellus xinping species, native to Hong Kong, and, notably, were not listed under CITES. As such, their import into Canada from Hong Kong did not contravene any international endangered species regulations.
Emphasizing the importance of adherence to import regulations for live organisms, CBSA reminds the public to be well-informed about the rules governing the transportation of creatures into Canada.
The tarantulas were handed over to the Royal Alberta Museum, where they are thriving in their new environment.
CBSA reminds travellers that all living creatures, including pets, must be declared upon entry into Canada to uphold regulations.
