An alleged wildlife trafficking ring operating between Port Stephens and the Central Coast has been busted and 86 native animals seized.
Investigators seized 76 reptiles, nine frogs and one bird from a home at Dora Creek on Wednesday August 5.
The state government's Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator (BHR) chief regulatory officer Adam Gilligan said the operation builds on a continued investigation into an alleged organised wildlife trafficking syndicate operating in NSW.
"Working alongside NSW Police and our partner agencies, we're targeting those allegedly involved in the illegal trade of protected native wildlife and disrupting these criminal networks," Mr Gilligan said.
"The illegal trafficking of native wildlife is a serious crime that threatens biodiversity, compromises animal welfare and can present significant risks to public safety."
The BHR's Specialist Investigation Section (SIS) has been investigating an alleged syndicate involved in the off-licence and illegal trade of protected native reptiles.
The operation follows a search warrant executed by SIS in Nelson Bay in June 2026, during which investigators seized numerous native reptiles as part of the same investigation.
Under the search warrant executed at the Dora Creek home, investigators seized 22 venomous snakes, including a coastal taipan, king brown snake, death adders, tiger snakes, red-bellied black snakes, brown tree snakes, marsh snakes and a strap-snouted brown snake.
BHR principal investigator Scott Beaumont said inquiries suggest this matter forms part of a broader alleged wildlife trafficking syndicate.
"This seizure included a significant number of highly venomous snakes, many of which require specialised handling, secure containment and strict legal controls," Mr Beaumont said.
Investigators also seized three woma pythons, an endangered green-and-gold bell frog population, a goldfields shingleback and several blue-tongued lizards.
An exotic leopard gecko was also located at the property and seized by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
The operation involved officers from the BHR's SIS, Wildlife Licensing, Investigations and Enforcement teams, NSW Police, DPIRD compliance investigators and an expert reptile handler.
Lake Macquarie Police District commander, superintendent Tracy Chapman, said criminal activity involving protected wildlife has "no place" in the community.
"The unlawful possession and movement of native animals, particularly highly venomous species, can place both the public and emergency responders at risk," Ms Chapman said.
"This operation demonstrates the value of intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement between the NSW Police Force and specialist regulatory agencies. Working together enables us to identify offending, disrupt criminal activity and protect the community.
"Those seeking to profit from the illegal trade of native wildlife should expect to be identified and investigated, with appropriate action taken where evidence of offences is established."
The investigation continues with SIS set to target individuals allegedly involved in the illegal trade of protected native wildlife across the state.
Anyone with information about alleged wildlife trafficking or the unlawful possession of native animals is encouraged to contact the Environment Line on 131 555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
