This National Geographic article tells the wild tale of the illegal, international beetle trade. Rhinoceros beetles endemic to Bolivia have found an enthusiastic market among Japanese pet collectors, fetching as much as $500 each and even inspiring the creation of a new Pokémon character. The popularity of beetle wrestling has only continued to drive demand, leaving experts concerned about these beetles, which are already endangered due to deforestation and the growing coca monoculture in their native Bolivia. Given these beetles’ vital role in facilitating nutrient recycling and soil aeration, their poaching and trafficking represents yet another threat to the Amazon, and exposes the current lack of environmental law enforcement in Bolivia.