In recent operations carried out in Mendoza, several protected wild birds were rescued, victims of illegal trafficking through social networks. One of them, a specimen of black-chested buzzard-eagle, was found in captivity in Maipú and was in irregular conditions.
The operation was possible thanks to coordinated work between the Rural Police, the Biodiversity Directorate, and the DIILE. A purchase was simulated to intervene at the seller’s residence, where the phone used in the transaction was also seized.
The eagle, a threatened native species, was transferred to the rescue center of the Cullunche Foundation for veterinary evaluation. Afterwards, it will be taken to Ecoparque Mendoza, where its recovery process will continue.
In a second operation, six white-throated treerunners, young birds from La Rioja protected by national regulations, were rescued as they were being offered in the Las Heras area. Thanks to prior intelligence work, the sale was intercepted before it could be completed.
The Impact of Wildlife Abandonment and Trafficking
These cases reflect a persistent environmental issue: the illegal wildlife trafficking and the abandonment of wild specimens in environments foreign to their ecosystem. Many of these birds suffer irreparable damage during captivity, both physical and behavioral.
Rehabilitation, although possible in some cases, is a lengthy process that does not always guarantee full reintegration into nature. Prolonged contact with humans affects their hunting, flying, or defense abilities.
Furthermore, the overcrowding, malnutrition, and stress they are subjected to in these illegal environments can lead to permanent consequences. Therefore, rescue must be accompanied by strict evaluation protocols and continuous monitoring.
Sanctions for these types of environmental crimes range from heavy fines to imprisonment. National Law 22,421 protects native fauna and establishes that any possession, commercialization, or transportation of wild animals without authorization is illegal.
White-throated treerunners saved from illegal species trafficking. Photo: Sitio Andino.
Protected Birds in Argentina
The National Law for Wildlife Conservation protects numerous species of birds that inhabit Argentine territory. Among them are raptors like the black-chested buzzard-eagle and the crowned eagle, as well as smaller ones like the yellow cardinal, the yellow finch, and the white-throated treerunner.
Threatened species such as the talking parrot, the red macaw, the Andean condor, and the Andean flamingo are also protected. Many of these birds play key roles in ecosystem balance, such as pest control or seed dispersion.
The illegal trafficking and possession of these species endanger not only their survival but also the ecological health of large regions in the country. The national government and provinces have open reporting mechanisms for citizens to combat this practice.
The recovery of wild birds like the black-chested buzzard-eagle is an encouraging sign, but also an urgent call to protect ecosystems. Citizen and governmental commitment is key to stopping wildlife trafficking and preserving Argentine biodiversity.
