We have seen travelers try to conceal knives and other weapons on their person, in their shoes and in their luggage, however I believe this is the first time we have come across someone who was concealing a live animal down the front of his pants,” TSA Federal Security Director for New Jersey Thomas Carter said.

“As best as we could tell, the turtle was not harmed by the man’s actions,” he added.

A spokesperson for the TSA says pets, including turtles, can be taken through checkpoints, but only if they are kept in cages or containers, ABC27 reported.

What are red-eared slider turtles?

Red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) are known to be native to North America. The turtles have an olive green to brown shell that is patterned with yellow spots or stripes. According to the Department of Conservation, “Most individuals have a distinctive red stripe behind their eyes but some may have an all-black head.” These turtles can live for up to 50 years in captivity.

The Department of Conservation adds, “To live a healthy life, red-eared sliders need a large heated indoor aquarium that holds at least 400 litres of water, along with a high-quality water filter and regulated lighting. This set-up can cost up to $3,000. If red-eared sliders live in an outdoor pond, it must be secure. These animals are excellent climbers and have a strong desire to seek out new habitat in the spring. They can travel several kilometres overland.”