The Ministry of Energy and Environment together with the Mendoza Security rescued protected wild birds that were in captivity in a home in Guaymallén. The procedure was led by the team from the Wildlife Division of the Biodiversity and Ecopark Directorate, in conjunction with the Rural Police.
The director of Biodiversity and Ecopark, Ignacio Haudet, warned that for every animal that is sold on the illegal market, 9 die in the process of extraction and transport from their natural environment.
Rescued Species and Recovery Process
The rescued wild birds were transferred to the Provincial Wildlife Rescue Center, where they entered a health evaluation and recovery protocol process. Among the species were:
- Yellow cardinals
- Siete cuchillos
- Goldfinches
- Red-crested cardinals
- Reina mora
- Diucas
The birds will remain in quarantine and then undergo a rehabilitation stage. If they reach conditions of autonomy compatible with wildlife, they may be reinserted into their natural habitat.
The person responsible for the residence was identified and is at the disposal of the corresponding Fiscal Office.
The Ecological Value of the Yellow Cardinal
Haudet explained that the yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata) is more than an attractive bird: it fulfills critical functions for the ecosystem, especially in forest and thorny areas:
- Seed dispersal of native plants like carob and piquillín, promoting forest regeneration.
- Biological control of insects and larvae, preventing pests.
- Indicator species of environmental quality, as its presence reflects the conservation status of the habitat.
Worldwide, it is estimated that there are between 1,500 and 3,000 wild specimens, making it an endangered species.
Threats and Conservation in Mendoza
In the province, the situation of the yellow cardinal is especially delicate due to:
- Illegal trafficking for pet purposes, due to its song and coloration.
- Habitat loss due to agricultural and livestock expansion.
- Drownings in Australian tanks without escape ramps.
In response to this scenario, Mendoza has taken a leading role in its conservation. Currently, its declaration as a Provincial Natural Monument is being promoted, along with other emblematic species such as the crowned eagle, the piche, and the siete cuchillos, which would grant them the highest level of legal protection.
Fines and Sanctions
Haudet highlighted that the administrative fine for the illegal possession of a yellow cardinal can exceed $3,000,000, depending on the severity of the act. Additionally, there may be criminal liabilities if a crime is committed.
The operation in Guaymallén highlights the seriousness of the illegal wildlife trafficking, a practice that not only threatens biodiversity but also causes the death of most of the captured specimens.
The conservation of the yellow cardinal and other emblematic species requires joint actions of control, education, and legal protection to ensure their survival.
Ways to report these incidents are through:
Fauna Contacts:
261 7503417 (Monday to Friday, from 8 to 13)
Email: [email protected]
Procedure portal: ticketsform.mendoza.gov.ar
Emergencies: 911 (request intervention from the Rural Security Police).
