Multi-Country
835 Captures and 3,000 Animals Rescued: the Operation That Five Countries Carried Out Simultaneously in the Amazon
Authorities in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru arrested 835 people and rescued more than 3,000 live animals during Operation Green Shield 2026, a coordinated effort targeting wildlife trafficking, illegal mining, and unauthorized logging across the Amazon basin. More than 3,600 officers participated in simultaneous operations. Authorities also recovered 430 dead animals, seized approximately 280,450 cubic meters of illegal timber, 195 tons of minerals, and more than 32,000 pieces of mining equipment. The combined seizures were valued at more than $280 million, illustrating the scale of the illegal trade in the Amazon’s natural resources. National operations provided further evidence of the trafficking network’s reach. In Colombia’s Meta department, authorities rescued 36 wild animals, seized timber and other forest products, and intervened in eight illegal mining operations. In Montería, an operation recovered 22 animals—including canaries, tortoises, caimans, owls, toucans, a sloth, and other species—which were transferred to a wildlife rehabilitation center. The operation was coordinated from Bogotá with support from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). By conducting simultaneous interventions across five countries, authorities sought to disrupt trafficking networks that can exploit borders and gaps between national enforcement systems.
Read moreColombia
The CAR Seizes Two Boa Constrictors Displayed as a Tourist Attraction on a Farm in Fusagasugá
Colombian environmental authorities rescued two boa constrictors from illegal captivity at an ecotourism farm in Fusagasugá following a citizen complaint. The Regional Autonomous Corporation of Cundinamarca (CAR) seized the snakes and, after determining they were in good condition, returned them to their natural habitat. Authorities warned that keeping wild animals in captivity is illegal and can disrupt natural behaviors, ecosystems, and food chains. CAR urged the public not to keep wildlife, including boas, turtles, parrots, and macaws, as pets or tourist attractions and encouraged residents to report cases of illegal wildlife possession or voluntarily surrender captive wild animals.
Read moreEcuador
An Audit process to Determine How the Environment Ministry Controls Wildlife Trafficking in the Galapagos Islands.
Ecuadorian authorities rescued 32 marine iguanas after a foreign national was arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle the protected animals out of the Galápagos Islands. The iguanas were found alive but weak and dehydrated, concealed in eight plastic containers inside a suitcase at Quito’s Mariscal Sucre Airport. The woman was reportedly traveling to Iceland. The marine iguanas, which are endemic to the Galápagos, are protected under Ecuadorian law and CITES. The seizure follows a recent investigation highlighting concerns over wildlife trafficking in the Galápagos. Ecuadorian officials have stated that the country does not authorize the commercial, breeding, or personal export of live specimens of these endemic species, making international trade in live Galápagos iguanas illegal. The case has also prompted Ecuadorian lawmakers to initiate an oversight process examining government efforts to combat wildlife trafficking in the archipelago.
Read morePolice Seized 21,000 Shark Fins at Guayaquil Airport
Ecuadorian authorities seized 21,897 shark fins at Guayaquil Airport after intercepting a shipment allegedly misdeclared as “fish maw.” The 75 packages were bound for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. National Police officers discovered inconsistencies in the shipment and, with support from environmental and fisheries authorities, confirmed that the cargo contained shark fins from multiple species. The shipment reportedly lacked the required permits, including a CITES permit. The fins were seized and placed under official chain of custody before being transferred to Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment for further investigation into the suspected environmental violations.
Read moreBolivia
The Governor's Office Rescued 40 Wild Animals During an Operation Against Wildlife Trafficking in El Torno
Bolivian authorities rescued 40 wild animals during a surprise operation at the El Torno Central Market in Santa Cruz. The operation, conducted by the Directorate of Natural Resources (Direna) and the Special Force to Fight Environmental Crimes (Felcda), targeted the illegal sale and possession of wildlife. The rescued animals included 14 yellow-winged parrots, two lead-breasted parrots, juvenile piyos, and a currichera turtle, a species considered rare in the region. Authorities warned that capturing wildlife can destroy nests, kill adult animals, and cause significant animal deaths during transport. The animals were transferred to the Governor’s Care and Referral Center for veterinary and biological evaluations to determine whether they can be returned to the wild or require long-term care. Officials reminded the public that the sale, possession, and commercialization of wild animals are punishable by law and urged residents not to purchase wildlife or keep wild animals as pets.
Read more300 Turtle Eggs Seized in Riberalta Markets During Operation Against Wildlife Trafficking
Bolivian authorities seized approximately 300 river turtle eggs during an operation targeting illegal wildlife trade in Riberalta, Beni. The Municipal Secretariat of Productive Development and Environment, Municipal Guard, POFOMA, and local authorities conducted the operation at the city’s central market, Abasto, and other points of sale. Authorities said the eggs are transported from riverine areas near Madre de Dios and sold openly in markets and on city streets. The seized eggs were transferred to the “Christ Saves You” and “Little Angels” shelters. River turtles are classified as Vulnerable in Bolivia’s Red Book of Vertebrates. Wildlife trafficking is punishable under Law 1525 by up to eight years in prison, and authorities said monitoring will continue throughout the species’ spawning season.
Read moreArgentina
Police Raid a Business in Cutral Co for Illegal Sale of Wildlife and Rescue Three African Hedgehogs
Argentine authorities rescued three African hedgehogs during a raid targeting the alleged illegal sale of wild and exotic animals at a business in Neuquén. The operation followed a prior complaint and involved the Environmental Crimes Division, Provincial Wildlife Wardens, and municipal inspectors. Authorities seized the hedgehogs along with veterinary medicines, animal-care supplies, a firearm, and ammunition. The business owner was detained and placed at the disposal of the judicial system, while the rescued animals were transferred to the custody of provincial wildlife authorities.
Read morePolice Raided a Home for Illegal Sale of Wildlife via WhatsApp and Seized Birds and an Armadillo
Argentine authorities arrested a man accused of illegally selling protected wildlife through WhatsApp. The investigation began September 16 after authorities discovered that the individual, identified as Elizondo, was advertising native animals and birds for sale. Following a court-authorized search in Angaco, officers seized cages, several native birds, and an armadillo in violation of wildlife protection law. The suspect was detained at the 20th Police Station and remains under the jurisdiction of the court.
Read moreThe Undersecretariat of Environment Rescued More Than 700 Specimens of Exotic Species from Africa
Argentina’s Subsecretariat of Environment rescued 721 live exotic fish and invertebrates following the detection of an illegal wildlife shipment at the cargo terminal of Ezeiza International Airport. The shipment, consisting of 33 boxes from Kenya, was transported by Ethiopian Airlines and was destined for an unregistered importer without the authorization required by Argentine authorities. The rescued animals included ornamental marine species such as starfish and lionfish, an invasive species that threatens marine ecosystems. Many of the animals arrived in critical condition due to the transport conditions and were transferred to the Fundación Temaikén rescue center for veterinary evaluation, stabilization, and rehabilitation. Authorities will determine their future placement based on health and environmental considerations.
Read moreParaguay
Seizure of More Than 40 Wildlife Eggs at Airport
Paraguayan authorities seized 43 eggs suspected to belong to wild bird species at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport. Two Malaysian nationals were arrested while allegedly attempting to transport the eggs to Thailand via Brazil. The eggs are being held at a secure incubation facility, where officials will identify the species after they hatch. Authorities suspect the shipment contains eggs from multiple species, potentially including parrots and macaws, which are planned to be transferred to a specialized facility for rehabilitation and reintroduction. The suspects face administrative sanctions under Paraguay’s Wildlife Law and potential criminal penalties of six months to four years in prison. Authorities noted that illegal wildlife trafficking increases during breeding season and said enforcement efforts are being strengthened during this period.
Read morePeru
SERFOR Recovers 44 Wild "Pito" Birds Victims of Illegal Trafficking in Huancayo
Peru’s National Forest and Wildlife Service (SERFOR) recovered 44 wild birds that were being illegally kept and trafficked in Huancayo, Junín. The operation was carried out after authorities received information about the illegal possession and sale of wildlife, with the animals found in conditions associated with the illegal wildlife trade. The rescued birds were placed under SERFOR’s care for veterinary evaluation and rehabilitation. Authorities will assess their physical condition and determine whether they are suitable for eventual release into their natural habitat.
Read moreBrazil
Police Arrest Trio Suspected of Hunting and Killing Wild Animals in Jacobina do Piauí
Brazilian Military Police arrested three men suspected of illegally hunting and killing wild animals in the rural area of Jacobina do Piauí. Officers stopped their vehicle during an early-morning patrol and found five armadillos, two of which had already been killed. Police also found two hunting dogs, ammunition, and hoes in the vehicle. The items were seized as evidence of suspected environmental crimes. The three men, identified by the initials E.R.A., E.L.S., and C.L.S., were taken to a local police station along with the seized animals and equipment for further legal proceedings.
Read moreSnakes Sent from Umuarama via the Postal Service Result in R$8,600 in Environmental Fines
Brazilian authorities seized three live corn snakes found inside a package shipped from Umuarama to Cambé, Paraná. The Environmental Military Police investigated the shipment and identified the person responsible. The individual received two environmental fines totaling R$8,600—R$6,000 for animal cruelty and R$2,600 for illegally transporting an exotic species without the required authorization. The case will also be referred to the Federal Police for potential criminal proceedings. Authorities did not disclose the sender’s identity or the snakes’ intended destination.
Read moreCivil Police Seize More Than 20 Animals from Brazilian Fauna in Mairiporã
Brazilian police seized more than 20 animals during a wildlife trafficking investigation in Mairiporã, São Paulo. Authorities launched “Operation Exotics” after discovering that a man allegedly used social media to sell wildlife to buyers in Sorocaba and other parts of the country. At the suspect’s residence, officers found 15 tortoises, five red-eared slider turtles, and an aquarium containing exotic fish. The man was taken to the police station and later released. Authorities are continuing to investigate whether he was authorized to possess the animals, whether they were being sold, and who may have purchased them.
Read moreMan Arrested with 206 Wild Birds Being Illegally Transported on BR-222 Highway in Ceará
Brazilian authorities arrested a 37-year-old man after finding 206 wild birds being transported without authorization on BR-222 in São Gonçalo do Amarante, Ceará. The birds were confined in cages inside a Fiat Mobi, with some reportedly found dead and others kept in inadequate conditions. The driver told officers he had been hired to transport the birds from São Luís do Curu to Fortaleza for R$200. Authorities also found a document listing bird species, quantities, and values, although officials said the record alone does not establish that the animals were being sold. The birds included great-tailed grackles, collared seedeaters, grasshopper sparrows, rufous-collared sparrows, mustached thrushes, and blue-black grassquits. The man was taken into custody, and authorities are investigating the animals’ origin, intended destination, and those responsible for their transport.
Read moreBrazilian Federal Highway Police (PRF) Rescues 37 Wild Birds Being Transported Illegally on BR-110 Highway in Paulo Afonso, Bahia
Brazilian authorities seized 37 wild birds being illegally transported in a vehicle on BR-110 in Paulo Afonso, Bahia. The Federal Highway Police found seven adult blue-and-yellow macaws, two adult red macaws, and 28 parrot chicks confined in cardboard boxes in the vehicle’s cargo area. The birds were being transported without the required documentation or environmental authorization and were reportedly kept in conditions unsuitable for their welfare. The driver told police he had been hired to transport the birds from Bahia to Pernambuco. The birds, vehicle, and driver were taken to the local police station. Authorities are investigating possible violations of Brazil’s Environmental Crimes Law, including illegal wildlife transport and animal cruelty.
Read moreOperation Rescues 11 Animals Kept Illegally on Property in Volta Redonda
Brazilian authorities rescued 11 wild and domestic animals from a property in Volta Redonda following a complaint of possible animal mistreatment. The operation, conducted by the Municipal Secretariat for Animal Protection and Defense with support from the Municipal Guard and Civil Police, uncovered documentation violations involving wildlife and inadequate living conditions. The rescued animals included four dogs, a goat, a macaw, two baby parrots, a rufous-collared sparrow, and three collared seedeaters. The wild animals were transferred to rehabilitation centers for evaluation and care, while the domestic animals were placed according to established protocols. The case was reported to police and will proceed through the appropriate legal channels. Authorities encouraged residents to report suspected animal abuse or illegal wildlife possession.
Read morePolice Seize 14 Wild Birds During Operation in Miguel Pereira
Brazilian authorities seized 14 wild birds during an operation targeting the alleged illegal breeding and use of birds in singing competitions in Miguel Pereira, Rio de Janeiro. The seizure followed a complaint investigated by police in the Praça da Ponte neighborhood. The birds included one rufous-collared sparrow, five blue-black grassquits, and eight collared seedeaters. The animals and their owners were taken to the police station, where the case was registered as an environmental crime. Following the investigation, the birds were transferred to a specialized facility in Rio de Janeiro for care and evaluation.
Read morePolice Seize Weapons and Wild Birds in the Rural Area of Tavares
Brazilian Civil Police seized three wild birds, two firearms, and hunting equipment during an operation in rural Tavares, Paraíba. The seized birds included a chick, a field rooster, and a canary, along with cages, lead, and gunpowder. Authorities also found evidence that three mocós had allegedly been killed for consumption. The species is classified as Vulnerable on Brazil’s official list of threatened wildlife. The resident, identified as JPS, 35, fled before police arrived and is being investigated for illegal hunting, wildlife captivity, and unlawful firearm possession. The rescued birds are expected to be released into the wild, while the seized hunting equipment will be destroyed.
Read moreMan Arrested with Wild Animals at His Residence
Brazilian police arrested a man for drug trafficking after finding more than four kilograms of marijuana at a residence in Votorantim. Officers also discovered several wild and exotic animals being illegally kept in captivity. The seized animals included a native parrot and purple dove, along with two alligator gars, two corn snakes, two Turkish doves, and a dragonfish. The environmental violations resulted in a R$4,400 fine, and the animals were seized for appropriate care. The man was taken into custody and remains under the jurisdiction of the courts.
Read moreTeams from the Nova Iguaçu City Hall Seized 47 Wild Birds Kept Illegally in a House in Vila de Cava
Brazilian environmental authorities seized 47 wild birds being illegally kept in cages at a residence in Nova Iguaçu, Rio de Janeiro. The operation followed an anonymous complaint and involved the city government, INEA, ICMBio, and the Military Police. The birds, which included thrushes, cardinals, tanagers, sparrows, and several species of seedeaters, lacked the documentation required for legal captivity. They were seized and underwent veterinary evaluation before the case was referred to police for investigation under Brazil’s environmental protection laws. Authorities said the operation marks the beginning of expanded cooperation among environmental agencies to combat wildlife trafficking and other environmental violations in and around protected areas. Future inspections will target illegal wildlife possession as well as other potential environmental offenses.
Read more71 Canaries Rescued in Teófilo Otoni
Brazilian Environmental Military Police seized 71 wild saffron finches being illegally kept in captivity at a residence in Teófilo Otoni, Minas Gerais, following an anonymous complaint. Officers also found four dead birds and reported that the surviving birds were kept in extremely dirty cages without adequate food or water. Authorities seized 63 wooden cages, five traps, and nine carriers allegedly used to capture and transport wildlife. The 71-year-old resident, who said he had previously been a licensed amateur bird breeder, was fined R$136,352 for illegal possession, animal mistreatment, and possession of wildlife-capture equipment. After veterinary evaluation determined they were capable of surviving in the wild, the 71 surviving birds were released into a protected wooded area. The seized cages, traps, and carriers were destroyed.
Read moreIbama Seizes 510 Birds in Operation to Combat Animal Trafficking at the Caruaru Fair
Brazilian environmental authorities seized 510 wild birds and issued approximately R$1 million in fines during an operation targeting wildlife trafficking at the Caruaru Fair in Pernambuco. Ibama deployed 87 federal environmental agents to inspect sales, transportation, storage, and online trafficking networks. The seized birds included parrots, finches, sparrows, grassquits, parakeets, and other native species. Authorities reported that some were kept in cruel conditions without adequate food or water and had visible injuries. Investigators also found that higher-value birds were allegedly sold through messaging apps and kept hidden until buyers were found. Twenty-seven people were taken to the police station, with nine remaining in custody. The rescued birds are undergoing individual assessments, with some already released and others requiring veterinary treatment and rehabilitation before they can be returned to the wild.
Read moreBrazilian Federal Highway Police (PRF) Rescues 584 Wild Animals in Lati (PE)
Brazilian authorities rescued 584 wild animals being transported in the back of a pickup truck in Iati, Pernambuco. The Federal Highway Police (PRF) found 555 birds confined in cages and 29 tortoises hidden beneath crates of fruit during a highway inspection. The animals included rufous-collared sparrows, bluebirds, grassquits, and other wild bird species. The driver, who had reportedly been arrested four times previously for possessing wildlife, said he acquired the animals in Sergipe and intended to resell them in Caruaru. A 29-year-old man and 27-year-old woman were arrested and could face charges related to wildlife trafficking, animal abuse, and criminal conspiracy. The rescued animals were transferred to IBAMA for care and eventual release into the wild.
Read moreBrazilian Federal Revenue Service Seizes Eight Wild Birds During Inspection at the International Friendship Bridge
Brazilian authorities seized eight wild birds during a routine inspection at the International Friendship Bridge in Foz do Iguaçu. The birds were found inside a cardboard box being transported by a passenger in a Paraguayan taxi. Officials were initially unable to identify the species, though they may be parrots or macaws. One bird hatched during the inspection, bringing the total number of live birds to eight. The individual was arrested at the scene, while the birds were transferred to the Bird Park for care and species identification.
Read more19 Wild Birds Found in Cages During an Operation in São Domingos
Brazilian Military Police seized 19 wild birds during an environmental operation in Vila Milani, São Domingos, Santa Catarina, following an anonymous tip about the illegal sale of wildlife. The birds were found in cages at a property belonging to a 64-year-old man, who reportedly said they belonged to a relative and acknowledged that they were being sold. The individual was formally charged and will appear before the Special Criminal Court. The birds were seized and transferred to the Environmental Military Police in Chapecó for care and further evaluation.
Read moreBrazilian Federal Police Investigate Trafficking and Mistreatment of Wild Animals in Niterói/RJ
Brazilian Federal Police launched Operation Bicho Solto to investigate an alleged interstate wildlife trafficking network. With support from the State Environmental Institute (INEA), officers searched a residence in Rio de Janeiro and found numerous wild and exotic birds and other animals being kept in captivity, some reportedly in poor conditions. Species found included barn owls, cockatoos, parrots, parakeets, macaws, and tortoises, including protected species. Authorities also seized suspected fraudulent documents, electronic materials, and approximately R$34,000 in cash. The suspect had previously been investigated for allegedly leading an interstate group involved in trafficking rare birds, including species reportedly captured from the wild. He was taken into federal custody and could face charges related to illegal wildlife possession and animal cruelty.
Read more1.45 Tons of Shark Fins Seized in Sergipe
Brazil's Federal Highway Police intercepted irregular transport of 1,450 kg of shark fins and 200 kg of swim bladders. The record does not presume international export.
Read moreOperation "Digital Trafficking" Combats Illegal Animal Trade and Reinforces Wildlife Protection in Minas Gerais
Brazilian authorities seized approximately 160 animals from a business in Ribeirão das Neves, Minas Gerais, during an operation targeting suspected wildlife trafficking, illegal sales, and animal mistreatment. The investigation focused on Mini Rancho Neverland, where authorities found native and exotic species including macaws, parrots, toucans, coatis, deer, agoutis, pacas, marmosets, cranes, cockatoos, emus, scorpions, and a boa constrictor. Investigators reportedly identified missing and inconsistent documentation, reused identification records, overcrowded enclosures, poor sanitary conditions, and evidence of animal mutilation. Three goats and an alpaca reportedly died during the operation, while a sheep carcass was also discovered. The animals were sent for necropsy, and the remaining rescued animals were transferred to wildlife rehabilitation centers and authorized facilities for care and evaluation. Authorities also seized electronic devices and documents allegedly linked to the sale of wildlife through social media. The business owner was arrested and later placed in preventive detention. An administrative fine of up to R$1.2 million may be imposed as the investigation continues.
Read moreBrazilian Federal Police Seize Over 1.5 Tons of Shark Fins in Bahia
Brazilian authorities seized approximately 1.58 tons of shark fins during an operation in Rodelas, Bahia, targeting an illegal processing and storage site. The Federal Police, Inema, and Ibama found fins from multiple species, including some considered endangered, in various stages of drying. Seven people, including one minor, were found at the site and taken to the Federal Police station in Juazeiro. Authorities reported that those involved face charges related to wildlife crimes, receiving stolen goods, and corruption of minors. Inema said the fins are often obtained through shark finning, in which fins are removed and the sharks are discarded, often while still alive. The seized fins will undergo technical analysis as authorities continue investigating the illegal trade.
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