A Pennsylvania man was caught attempting to conceal a live turtle in his pants at Newark Liberty International Airport on Friday, according to the TSA.
The incident unfolded when a body scanner alarm went off during the man’s security screening. A TSA officer conducted a pat-down and discovered something hidden in his groin area. The man then pulled a small, wrapped turtle from his pants.
The turtle, about 5 inches in length, was identified as a red-eared slider, a common pet species. The passenger, from East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, did not provide further details about the turtle’s origin or purpose.
Port Authority police confiscated the turtle, and the man, whose identity was not released, missed his flight. The TSA’s Thomas Carter noted that while travelers have tried to hide weapons in unusual places, this was the first case involving a live animal concealed in such a manner.
The incident is under investigation, though it is unclear whether the man will face charges. Authorities confirmed the turtle appeared unharmed.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.