On January 11, 2026, a joint operation between the Local Mayor’s Office of La Candelaria, the Metropolitan Police of Bogotá, and the District Institute for Animal Protection and Welfare (Idpyba) allowed the rescue of 404 animals that were being sold without authorization in the center of the Colombian capital during the Festival of the Three Wise Men and Epiphany.
The action originated from citizen complaints that alerted about the presence of vendors in public spaces, where the sale of live animals is prohibited by local regulations.
Animals in a state of vulnerability
Among the recovered specimens were:
- 247 chickens
- 61 hamsters
- 43 ducks
- 31 rabbits
- 22 quails
All were transferred to the Idpyba veterinary clinic by the Metropolitan Police. The initial diagnosis revealed low body weight, rough fur, generalized weakness, and absence of basic health protocols. Inadequate feeding, lack of water, and deterioration of the utensils used were also noted.
Many animals showed a minimal reaction to the environment, reflecting physical and behavioral deterioration that prompted immediate intervention.
Sanctions and corrective measures
The individuals involved in the sale received citations as part of the sanctioning and corrective process, in compliance with the legislation that prohibits the commercialization of wildlife in public spaces.
The director of Idpyba, Antonio Hernández Llamas, explained that the intervention responded both to the illegality of the sale and the urgency of protecting the animals. “In Bogotá, we do not allow animal abuse, and selling in public spaces is illegal,” emphasized the official.
Custody and rehabilitation
The 404 animals were placed under the custody of Idpyba, the entity responsible for their rehabilitation and comprehensive recovery. The technical teams will work on stabilizing their health and well-being before defining a definitive solution for each specimen.
The veterinary assessment revealed an alarming situation: nutritional, health, and comfort issues, in addition to altered behaviors. The decision to rescue the animals aimed to ensure compliance with the animal welfare standards established in the district’s public policy.
Strategy against wildlife trafficking
Authorities reported that, in addition to the imposed sanctions, controls at mass events will be reinforced to prevent the recurrence of these practices.
The operation is part of a broader strategy to combat the sale and trafficking of animals in Bogotá, driven by the collaboration between the Local Mayor’s Office of La Candelaria, the Metropolitan Police, and Idpyba.
Call to the public
The institutions reiterated the call to the public to report any case of abuse or illegal trade, which facilitates timely action by specialized teams and strengthens the protection of wildlife in the capital.
The rescue of more than 400 animals in Bogotá reflects the importance of inter-institutional action and citizen reporting in defending animal welfare. The intervention not only halted an illegal practice but also highlighted the need to reinforce controls and promote social awareness about respect for life and animal protection.
