U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Hidalgo Port of Entry intercepted 20 undeclared parrots during a recent enforcement action. The incident took place on July 7 at the Hidalgo International Bridge when a 22-year-old female U.S. citizen attempted to enter the United States in a 2022 Chevy Traverse. Upon referral for secondary inspection, CBP officers discovered the birds concealed in a bag inside the vehicle.
Port Director Carlos Rodriguez stated, "Our frontline CBP officers and agriculture specialists continue to maintain resolute vigilance amid heavy holiday weekend traffic and that mission dedication led to the interception of 20 parrots." He emphasized CBP's commitment to preventing the exploitation of protected animals and controlling animal diseases.
Following the discovery, Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service launched a criminal investigation, resulting in the driver's arrest. The parrots were transferred by Texas Game Wardens to Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, while CBP seized the vehicle.
Parrots are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, with their importation regulated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
CBP officers and agriculture specialists at various ports of entry, including Hidalgo, continue their efforts to prevent harmful pests and diseases from entering the United States as part of CBP’s agriculture mission.
For updates on related news, follow CBP’s Laredo Field Office on social media platforms such as X (@DFOLaredo) and Instagram (@dfolaredo), as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization and unified border management agency, comprising over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding national security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.
