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2mo ago

San Diego Man Faces Federal Charges for Smuggling 14 Keel-Billed Toucans

The case represents the fourth recent prosecution targeting protected exotic birds across Southern California border crossings.

Group of juvenile toucans in care of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff before being transferred for quarantine. (U.S. Attorney’s Office)

Overview

  • Federal agents at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry uncovered 14 sedated juvenile Keel-billed toucans hidden inside a Volkswagen Passat dashboard after a CBP canine alert.
  • Some of the birds suffered injuries including broken tails and a fractured leg before being transferred to a USDA Animal Import Center, where they are now in stable condition under quarantine.
  • Carlos Abundez, 35, is charged under two counts of Title 18 U.S.C. §545, each carrying up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
  • Keel-billed toucans are listed on CITES Appendix II, making their international trade illegal without proper permits and quarantine to prevent disease transmission.
  • This prosecution follows three similar cases since late April in which federal authorities disrupted smuggling attempts involving protected parakeets and parrots.