CBP Officers Intercept Live Parrots and Chickens in Wildlife Smuggling Attempts at San Diego Border

In two separate incidents at San Diego ports of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized a total of 28 parrots and three chickens that were being smuggled into the United States from Mexico. The seizures took place at the Otay Mesa and San Ysidro crossings and involved two different drivers attempting to conceal live animals in personal belongings and vehicles.

The first case occurred on April 30 at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry when a 51-year-old man driving a 2017 SUV was referred for a secondary inspection. During a pat-down, CBP officers discovered six live parrots hidden in the man’s boots. A further search of the vehicle led to the discovery of six more parrots concealed near the front passenger seat. Two of those birds were found deceased. The man was detained, and the birds were turned over to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for further investigation.

A second smuggling attempt was uncovered at the San Ysidro Port of Entry on May 10. In that incident, CBP officers referred a 34-year-old woman driving a 2016 sedan to secondary inspection. Officers discovered 16 parrots and three chickens in cardboard boxes hidden within the vehicle’s trunk and rear floor area. All birds were alive at the time of discovery. The case was also referred to partner agencies for further action.

CBP officials emphasized the serious health and environmental risks posed by illegal animal smuggling, including the potential spread of avian diseases. Transporting live animals without proper declaration and inspection is a violation of multiple U.S. regulations, and the individuals involved could face legal consequences pending further investigation.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from a press release issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection

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