Geckos, spiders and scorpions rescued from 'cruel' alleged animal smuggler

The 19-year-old was arrested on May 6 after a search of his Subiaco, Perth home found "a number of species of wildlife including geckos, spiders and scorpions", the border force said.

Several digital devices were also seized as officers investigated Australian native animal sales on the lucrative international wildlife market.

Reports vary on the potential black market price for native lizards but police estimated on January 8, after an unrelated shipment of reptiles was seized, that they could sell for more than $5000.

Investigators called for public help to track down the alleged smuggler using a CCTV image after he attempted to ship three lizards to Malaysia in a package marked as 'toys' on February 29, the border force said.

A number of credible tips were received which led the border force to make a quick arrest, assistant commissioner Chris Waters said.

"This is an outstanding result, which quite possibly has prevented even more Australian wildlife being sent overseas for profit - a practice which is not only cruel but many of the animals smuggled this way sadly don't survive the journey," assistant commissioner Waters said.

"We want to thank the people that came forward with information which helped lead us to the man's arrest."

He has been charged with one count of attempted export of a regulated native specimen and has been remanded as his case progresses.

Anyone with information about the import and export of wildlife can contact Border Watch. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community. Information can be provided anonymously.