Regional Operation Targets Wildlife Trafficking in Southeast Mexico

Mexico City — Mexico’s Federal Environmental Protection Agency (Profepa) has carried out a special inspection and surveillance operation across seven states in the country’s southeast, seizing multiple specimens of wild animals threatened by illegal trade.

The strategic deployment was launched at the start of the breeding season for native species, a period when local wildlife is more vulnerable to illicit capture by trafficking networks.

Deployment in Seven States

Inspections focused on strategic highway checkpoints, collection centers, and traditional markets in the following states:

• Chiapas
• Oaxaca
• Quintana Roo
• Yucatán
• Campeche
• Veracruz
• Tabasco

Protection of Vulnerable Species

During the interventions, federal inspectors concentrated on protecting psittacine birds (parrots, macaws, and parakeets), primates, and native reptiles — the species in highest demand on the black market during this time of year.

Rescued animals received immediate veterinary medical evaluation to determine their health. Those in optimal condition were released into their natural habitats, while injured or dependent individuals were transferred to Wildlife Management Units (UMAs).

Profepa reminded the public that extracting, collecting, and selling wildlife without proper authorization is a federal crime punishable by prison sentences and severe fines under Mexican environmental law.