21 Parrots, Toucan Found Hidden Inside Vehicle At CA Border​

TECATE, CA — Authorities discovered 21 parrots and a toucan hidden in a vehicle trying to cross into the United States from Mexico, officials announced Tuesday.

A 35-year-old woman tried to cross the border around 7 a.m. Saturday at the Tecate Port of Entry in San Diego County, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

During a routine inspection of her vehicle, CBP officers with a K-9 discovered a box under a blanket with parrots inside. After further inspection, officers found a total of 21 parrots and a keel-billed toucan hidden in boxes and cages in the cargo area of the vehicle.

"Engaging in wildlife trafficking is illegal and can result in significant fines, imprisonment and other legal penalties," said Rosa Hernandez, director of the ports of entry in Otay Mesa and Tecate. "CBP upholds numerous state and local laws to stop smuggling attempts like these, which could result in the trafficking of potentially endangered species."

Officers detained the driver, whose name was not released, on suspicion of attempted smuggling. She was turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations and Fish and Wildlife Services.

The birds were placed in quarantine by USDA Veterinary Services to ensure they were not affected by avian disease.