Last year, the province of San Juan accelerated its strong policy against wildlife trafficking in the province, and this 2026 aims to continue on that path.
In 2025 alone, authorities dismantled various illegal animal trade networks and rescued dozens of wild animals throughout the province.
In particular, the operations against wildlife trafficking in San Juan yielded a concrete result: 161 infraction reports for possession, capture, and illegal commercialization of animals and flora extraction.
The procedures were concentrated in Albardón, Iglesia, Caucete, and Zonda. According to records, birds were the most affected, especially the benteveo, one of the species most sought after for illegal pet trade.
Furthermore, San Juan’s efforts against wildlife trafficking continue in 2026. This year, the Environment Secretariat has already issued approximately 15 new infraction reports.
Additionally, it conducted raids in Rawson, Rodeo, Bermejo, and La Bebida.
Coordinated operations in San Juan against wildlife trafficking
To combat wildlife trafficking in San Juan, the Secretariat coordinated actions with the Ecological Police, San Juan Police, Federal Police, National Gendarmerie, and the UFI.
This inter-institutional scheme allowed for intensified controls in protected areas, reinforced road controls, and executed broader scope raid procedures.
All rescued animals undergo a health and behavioral evaluation process. They then enter rehabilitation to determine if they can be released.
The reintroduction is planned according to the natural geographic distribution of each species, prioritizing environments that ensure their survival without causing ecological risks.
The most significant rescue: 26 Yellow Cardinals
One of the most relevant operations occurred in Rawson, where 26 specimens of Yellow Cardinal, an endangered species whose natural distribution does not correspond to San Juan, were rescued.
The Secretariat is working with the environmental area of Río Negro —the province from which the birds were transported— to coordinate their return to their original habitat.
Among the most recovered species in the various operations are:
- Benteveo
- Yellow Cardinal (endangered)
- Other wild birds of various species
For cases where the animals are not native to San Juan, the Secretariat coordinates with other jurisdictions for their transfer and reintegration.
The community also played a key role. Any citizen can anonymously report wildlife trafficking situations by calling 4305057 or via WhatsApp at 2644305057.
