Ever feel like you’re being watched? That feeling is now extending into the mail, with Australia Post cracking down on some rather unexpected items plying the country’s postal codes—spiders, scorpions and other bugs!

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Yes, you read that right. Australia Post is tightening its grip on the shipment of spiders and other creepy crawlers as the online trade of exotic invertebrates continues to grow.

Australia Post prohibits the shipment of live animals domestically. Credit: Toni Pomar, Unsplash

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According to a spokesperson, the national postal service is reaching out to online businesses regarding shipment rules in light of recent trends.

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At least 260 terrestrial species are being advertised online for sale by local websites. The costs involved can be quite high, with some species selling for up to $300 each.

Australia Post prohibits shipping live animals domestically, except for bees, leeches and silkworms. ‘Harmless insects’ are also accepted solely for agricultural purposes.

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The decision for tighter inspection comes after studies gathered by the University of Adelaide in what is being dubbed a ‘booming trade’ in Australia. Lead researcher and PhD student Charlotte Lassaline said: 'Encouraging people to learn more about and develop a passion for invertebrates is highly important for their conservation; however, it is equally important to regulate the trade of these species to mitigate associated risks.'

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Those risks include the danger of native species being over-collected, endangering their wild populations, and the threat of invasive species entering Australia’s biosecurity. These species include the white garden snail, the Asian tramp snail, and the African big-headed ant, which is listed as one of the world's worst 100 pests.

Funnel-web spiders are venomous spiders found in Eastern Australia. Credit: Australian Museum

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The trade is concerning some industry experts, including website operator Alan Henderson. He said: 'We have been concerned for some time that there is the great risk of over-collection of vulnerable species, and have been promoting captive breeding as an alternative.'

He added that while he 'fully supports' a ban on posting dangerous or deadly insects–such as funnel web spiders–he believes non-venomous ones should still be allowed.

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For assistance with all things about mail (snail, and otherwise), keep an eye out for the Australia Post's policies and always consult their customer service team for more detailed information.

Key Takeaways

• Australia Post is cracking down on the online trade of invertebrates, including spiders, scorpions, and ants.
• Many bug sellers misinterpret 'harmless insect' to include arachnids like scorpions and spiders, which are technically prohibited by Australia Post's conditions.
• The postal service communicates with online businesses to ensure they understand the rules, which are in place for ethical, practical, and safety reasons.
• There is a suggestion for a ban on posting dangerous or deadly insects, which could be implemented while still permitting non-venomous types.

Remember, Australia Post is for letters and packages, not spiders and scorpions! Happy mailing, everyone.

What are your thoughts on this story, dear members? Share them in the comments below!

 

[Mr Chips]

This is very worrying. Remember the origin of Cane Toads? This hideous pastime could further wreck world food supplies if an infestation occurs. This must be stopped in its entirety immediately. I will keep the comments regarding this issue for the next time I go overseas and bring back an innocent wooden toy gift. That requires 2 hours of grilling by border force and a severe fine. Border forces should be employed to do something more productive.