SOME Western Australian reptiles have been rescued from smugglers who were attempting to send them interstate through Perth Airport.

Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said trying to smuggle native wildlife was not only illegal it was disgraceful.

In one case, a package containing eight live bobtail lizards destined for Sydney was intercepted, resulting in a $2500 fine.

In another, 70 reptiles hidden inside two toolboxes were discovered en route to Melbourne.

These animals included five jewelled geckos, 12 pygmy spiney-tailed skinks, 28 eastern Pilbara spiney-tailed skinks, 22 western Pilbara spiney-tailed skinks, one crested dragon, and two desert egernia.

The offenders were fined $15,000.

“These cases show it won’t be tolerated and that those found engaging in this cowardly behaviour will be prosecuted,’’ Mr Swinbourn said.

“I want to thank our wildlife officers for their vigilance and commitment to bringing these offenders to justice.”

Both convictions followed targeted operations by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) wildlife officers under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Investigations revealed the reptiles were destined for the illicit wildlife trade.

In handing down the penalties, the court stated they were “offences against the community and the community have an expectation that wildlife of the community is adequately protected”.

DBCA wildlife officers urged the public to report any suspicious activity involving native animals.

Information can be provided confidentially to the wildcare helpline on 9474 9055.