In a procedure carried out by the “San Justo” Road Safety Squadron of the National Gendarmerie in the province of Santa Fe, 104 wild birds were rescued.
The birds were being transported illegally on a long-distance bus traveling from Clorinda (Formosa) to the city of Córdoba.
The operation took place in Videla, on National Route 11, and allowed the recovery of key species for ecological balance.
At-risk Birds: cardinals, black-chinned monarchs, and white-beaked bullfinches
During the inspection at kilometer 545 of National Route 11, in the town of Videla, the officers detected two bags in the bus’s luggage compartment. Inside, they found:
- 70 cardinals
- 30 black-chinned monarchs
- 4 white-beaked bullfinches
None of the birds had the legal documentation for their transport, which constitutes a violation of National Law No. 22,421 on the Conservation of Wildlife and Provincial Law No. 4,830.
Rehabilitation and Release: a sustained environmental policy
The specimens were taken to the “La Esmeralda” Rescue Center, where they received specialized care after being rescued.
The birds were released last Friday in natural areas near the town of Soledad by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Santa Fe.
Rescued wild birds in the province of Santa Fe
Over 350 animals released so far this year
Santa Fe consolidates a model of rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of wild birds.
So far in 2025, the Government of Santa Fe has already carried out the release of over 450 wild animals. Most of them were rescued from illegal trafficking, pet trade, or improper possession.
These processes are carried out at the “La Esmeralda” Wildlife Rescue, Research, and Interpretation Center, and add to the over 500 releases made during the year.
Roadkill Map: territorial planning to protect wildlife
In May, the first provincial wildlife roadkill map was presented in Santa Fe, developed with:
- Official records
- Academic contributions
- Citizen science data
This tool will allow the implementation of measures such as wildlife crossings, specific signage, and mitigation strategies in the most critical road corridors.
An Innovative Approach to Biodiversity Conservation
Santa Fe integrates science, territory, and participation to address the climate crisis.
The approach promoted by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change consolidates a strategy that integrates scientific knowledge, territorial management, and citizen action to:
- Protect biodiversity
- Preserve key biological corridors
- Respond to the challenges of the climate crisis
