“Our frontline CBP officers and agriculture specialists encountered something we don’t see every day, 10 baby parrots hidden within a passenger vehicle,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.  “As this enforcement action illustrates, CBP remains committed to upholding our agriculture mission, preventing the spread of animal diseases, and preventing the exploitation of protected animals.”

Carrier containing 10 live yellow-headed baby parrots (Amazona oratrix) intercepted by CBP officers and agriculture specialists at Hidalgo International Bridge.

The incident occurred on April 29 at Hidalgo International Bridge when CBP officers referred a passenger vehicle for a secondary inspection.  At secondary, CBP officers and agriculture specialists discovered five parrot chicks in a pillowcase and five more in the front seat area.  CBP personnel intercepted a total of 10 live yellow headed baby parrots.  A penalty was assessed to the driver.

The parrots were transferred over to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Veterinary Services.

CBP would like to remind the public of the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations that prohibit live birds, fresh eggs, and raw poultry from Mexico as Mexico is affected with virulent Newcastle disease and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).   Both diseases affect poultry, are serious diseases of concern, and are highly contagious.  In addition, yellow-headed parrots (Amazona oratrix) are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and require proper paperwork for lawful importation. Attempting to bring these prohibited items could lead to traveler delays and may result in a fine ranging from $300 to $1,000.

On the border at land, air, and sea-based ports of entry, including Laredo, CBP officers and agriculture specialists continue to fulfill CBP’s agriculture mission by excluding harmful pests and diseases from becoming established in the United States.  For more information regarding CBP’s agriculture mission, click on the following link.  More information regarding HPAI or virulent Newcastle disease can be found at link or link.

Follow the Director of CBP’s Laredo Field Office on Twitter at @DFOLaredo and also U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas for breaking news, current events, human interest stories and photos.

Original source can be found here