Profepa Saves 25 Parrots and Monkey in Yucatán Bust

Mérida, Yucatán — As part of ongoing operations to combat wildlife trafficking, inspectors from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) in Yucatán rescued a spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi) and 25 parrots, including four chicks, from two individuals who failed to prove legal ownership of the animals. Both suspects were turned over to authorities.

Illegal Transport Intercepted

On May 31, during a routine inspection along the federal highway between Campeche and Mérida, officers from the Yucatán State Public Security Secretariat detected two individuals transporting the animals. The seized parrots included:

• 10 white-fronted parrots (Amazona albifrons)
• 1 Guatemalan parrot (Amazona guatemalae)
• 5 yellow-cheeked parrots (Amazona autumnalis)
• 4 white-crowned parrots (Pionus seniles)
• 4 unidentified Amazona parrots
• 1 deceased parrot

Additionally, a spider monkey was found in their possession.

Legal Action and Environmental Assessment

Unable to provide documentation proving legal acquisition, the individuals were detained by Profepa and handed over to the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR). Authorities are conducting a damage assessment to quantify the environmental impact of the illegal wildlife extraction.

The rescued species are listed under Mexico’s Official Standard NOM-59-SEMARNAT-2010, which identifies wildlife at risk and establishes protection categories.

Continued Enforcement Efforts

Profepa emphasized its ongoing collaboration with state authorities to combat wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species across Mexico.