55 Native Birds Freed in Uruguay After Illegal Captivity Rescue

In the department of Lavalleja, Uruguay, a significant operation led to the rescue of 55 native birds that were being held illegally in captivity. The initiative began after the Rural Security Brigade received a tip about two locations in the city of Minas where native birds were being kept. The operation, overseen by Valeria Uriarte, the departmental representative for the Directorate of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, identified the owners of the properties where the birds were found.

Among the species recovered were various types of cardinals (red-crested, blue, and yellow), Rey del Bosque, Azulitos, Mistos, Jilgueros, Juan Chiviro, Celestón or Azulejo, Naranjero, Achira, Achará, Gargantillos, and Dorados. Authorities also confiscated a large number of cages and traps used in the illegal trade.

The rescued birds were subsequently released. Some found their freedom in protected rural areas with native forests within Lavalleja, while others were taken to the Pan de Azúcar Native Fauna Breeding Station for health assessments before their release. The Ministry of Environment encourages citizens to report similar situations through the environmental reporting section on its website.