In a joint operation carried out on the 22nd, authorities from Bello, Antioquia, in Colombia rescued four exotic birds from wildlife trafficking.
They were found inside a house. The find included a blue and yellow macaw, a red-and-green macaw and two yellow-crowned parrots. All species native to the country and recognized for their beauty and colorful plumage.
Wildlife trafficking operation in Colombia: this is how the birds were found
The birds showed clear signs of abuse, as reported by local media.
Thus, the deterioration in the feathers, overgrown nails, and signs of stress could be seen. Three of them still had the ability to fly, while the macaw showed physical limitations.
Additionally, macaw feathers used in floral arrangements were found in the house, a common practice in illegal wildlife trafficking.
Rescued birds. (Photo: El Colombiano).[/caption>
The operation was led by the Special Group for the Fight against Animal Abuse (GELMA) of the Attorney General’s Office, in collaboration with the Environmental Police (MEVAL GUBIM), the Mayor’s Office of Bello, and the Metropolitan Area of the Aburrá Valley.
Authorities continue to investigate the case to identify those responsible and apply the corresponding sanctions.
The fate of the birds
The rescued birds were taken to the Center for Attention, Valuation, and Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CAVR), where they will receive specialized veterinary care.
The goal is their recovery and, if possible, their subsequent release into their natural habitat. However, the consequences of captivity, such as feather plucking syndrome and loss of social skills, may hinder this process.
Key points to understand the wildlife trafficking issue
Illegal trafficking of wildlife generates between 15 and 20 billion dollars annually, being the fourth largest illegal trade in the world.
More than 100 bird species, 20 reptile species, and 15 mammal species in Argentina are affected by this trafficking, with around 20 species in threat categories.
Wildlife trafficking[/caption>
The main victim species are:
- Birds: cardinal, red-crested cardinal, toucan, and talking parrot.
- Reptiles: land, river, and pond turtles.
- Mammals: monkeys, felines, and deer.
- Exotic Species: Bengal tigers, eland antelopes, African ostriches, Fiji iguanas, Lear’s macaw, and cobras.
Trafficking is concentrated in regions with high biodiversity, and the captured specimens are transported to large cities with high demand for birds, reptiles, and mammals as pets.
