Border officers found 116 live protected lizards hidden inside a woman's jacket lining

A routine border check turned into an extraordinary animal seizure when customs officers found 116 live lizards hidden inside a woman's jacket. The reptiles were discovered after a bus was stopped at a Russian checkpoint near the Polish border.

A search uncovered dozens of tiny canvas pouches

The passenger was on a bus stopped at the Mamonovo-2 border checkpoint in Russia's Kaliningrad region on August 25. During a search of her clothing, inspectors found numerous small canvas bags concealed inside the lining of her jacket.

Each pouch held live reptiles, with between three and five animals packed into a single bag. Officials said the lizards measured about 10 to 15cm long. When the count was finished, customs officers said there were 116 reptiles in total.

Images released by officials showed large numbers of the small lizards after they were removed from the jacket.

The reptiles were identified as a protected species

Experts later identified the animals as secret toadhead agamas, a desert-dwelling species protected under Russia's Red Data Book. The reptiles live in sandy and desert habitats across parts of Russia and Central Asia.

They are known for an unusual defensive display. When threatened, they can flatten their bodies and open their mouths, revealing noticeable folds of skin at the sides.

Officials said the woman could not provide documents authorising her to transport the animals. According to customs authorities, she told inspectors she had agreed to take the lizards to Germany in exchange for money.

All 116 reptiles survived the trip to the border, according to customs officials, and were transferred to a local rescue centre for exotic animals.

The woman is now facing administrative proceedings over allegedly concealing goods from customs control. Under the relevant Russian law, officials said she could face a fine worth up to three times the value of the seized goods, and confiscation is also possible.

Why protected lizards are trafficked

Rare reptiles can attract buyers who want unusual pets, breeding animals, or collector items. Some species are protected because wild populations are under pressure from habitat loss, over collecting, or both. Small lizards are especially vulnerable because they are easy to conceal in clothing, luggage, or parcels.

That does not mean transport is safe. Reptiles hidden in cramped spaces can suffer stress, dehydration, overheating, crushed limbs, and infection. Even if they survive the journey, weak animals often die later or spread parasites and disease to other pets.

How the legal trade is meant to work

Not every exotic reptile sale is illegal. In many places, some species can be kept lawfully if they come from captive breeding and the right paperwork travels with them. Rules vary by country and by species, so sellers should be able to explain where the animal came from, what permits apply, and how it was transported.

A responsible sale usually includes clear species identification, feeding and habitat advice, and a traceable record of ownership. Vague labels, missing documents, or claims that an animal is "farm bred" without proof are warning signs.

What buyers and bystanders can do

If you are considering an exotic pet, do not buy on impulse from social media or informal meetups. Ask for proof of legal origin, recent photos, and details about heating, lighting, diet, and veterinary care. If a seller refuses basic questions, wants secrecy, or offers unusually risky delivery, walk away.

If you spot suspicious wildlife sales, save screenshots and report them to local wildlife, border, or animal welfare authorities. Good records can help experts identify the species and protect surviving animals.