NEW YORK, NY-- 5 king cobras and 3 geckos were seized at JFK International Mail Facility late last month.
Authorities say the animals arrived as a parcel from Hong Kong.
The paperwork indicated the package contained a "plastic tray," but it was clear after agents x-rayed the parcel that it was something else.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife officials were called to inspect the package further.
Inside the container, they found a styrofoam casing with holes.
Further inspection revealed the package contained the baby king cobras and geckos.
Customs and Border Patrol seized the package and have handed it over to Fish and Wildlife as the investigation continues.
A slithering seizure! #CBP officers seize five baby cobras at #JFK mail facility. READ more: https://t.co/7h4qZajXBUpic.twitter.com/6nIE69dSRA
— CBP (@CustomsBorder) July 12, 2017