Dozens of Live Pythons Found in Truck Crossing Mexican Border

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers uncover shocking discovery at Texas-Mexico border crossing.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:14am

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo, Texas discovered 39 live pythons hidden inside a tractor-trailer attempting to cross into Mexico. The driver initially denied transporting any prohibited goods, but a subsequent inspection revealed the snakes packaged in small individual bags. The animals were seized by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents and transported to a controlled environment due to their poor condition.

Why it matters

The discovery of the pythons highlights the vigilance of CBP officers in enforcing laws that protect the environment and prevent the illegal importation and exportation of wildlife. Smuggling live animals across international borders can pose serious risks to the animals' welfare and the local ecosystem if released.

The details

On March 5, CBP officers encountered a tractor-trailer trying to travel into Mexico at the World Trade Bridge. After the driver denied transporting any prohibited goods, officers selected the vehicle for inspection and discovered 39 live pythons hidden inside the tractor. The snakes were each packaged in small individual bags. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents took custody of the animals and transported them to a controlled environment due to their poor condition. CBP issued a $34,824 penalty for the export violations related to the incident.

  • On March 5, CBP officers encountered the tractor-trailer at the World Trade Bridge.

The players

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including those related to the importation and exportation of wildlife.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

A federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior that is responsible for enforcing wildlife laws and regulations, including those related to the illegal trade of animals.

Alberto Flores

Port Director of the Laredo Port of Entry for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

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What they’re saying

“The interception of live pythons at the World Trade Bridge highlights the vigilance and dedication of our CBP officers in enforcing laws that protect both our borders and our environment.”

— Alberto Flores, Port Director, Laredo Port of Entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

What’s next

CBP officials stated they remain committed to preventing the illegal importation and exportation of wildlife and ensuring compliance with all federal regulations.

The takeaway

This incident demonstrates the important role that U.S. Customs and Border Protection plays in intercepting the illegal wildlife trade and protecting the environment. The discovery of the 39 live pythons hidden in a truck crossing the border highlights the vigilance of CBP officers and the need for continued enforcement to prevent the smuggling of protected species.