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Couple Caught Smuggling Parrots in Pillow Fort
5 Feb
Summary
- Couple arrested for hiding three red-lored parrots near passenger's feet.
- Birds were purchased in Mexico without required permits or inspections.
- Smuggling endangered wildlife threatens ecosystems and human health.
At the Lincoln-Juarez port of entry in Laredo, Texas, federal officials discovered a couple attempting to smuggle three red-lored parrots. The birds were found concealed near the passenger's feet within their vehicle during a secondary inspection. Authorities suspect the parrots were acquired in Mexico and brought across the border without the necessary permits, veterinary inspection, or quarantine.
Red-lored parrots are highly valued in the illegal pet trade, fetching prices up to $3,000 each due to their intelligence and mimicry abilities. This marks the third alleged smuggling attempt by the couple. Wildlife smuggling poses serious threats beyond individual animal welfare, including ecosystem destabilization, population declines of endangered species, and the potential introduction of diseases to new environments, impacting native species, agriculture, and human health. Such activities divert resources from conservation efforts and habitat restoration.
