On October 4, officials from the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) intercepted a passenger suspected of smuggling at Miami International Airport in Florida. During a search under the individual’s clothing, they found 10 live birds.
According to a report by Fox News on Wednesday, October 7, the man involved is named Alberto Hernandez Castillo, born in Cuba and a legal permanent resident of the United States.
He arrived in Miami on October 4 on a flight from Havana. Upon clearing customs, he was stopped by customs officials for inspection.
Castillo had signed a customs declaration form before entering, stating that he was not carrying any animals or wildlife into the country.
During a routine questioning of his itinerary, officials noticed “unexplained bulges” around his waist and pelvic area, and observed that he appeared “nervous,” prompting them to conduct a body search.
During the search, six transparent cylindrical containers with live birds were discovered. These containers were wrapped in tape and placed in black pockets sewn inside his underwear. A total of 10 birds were recovered, preliminarily identified as 8 yellow-faced grassquits and 2 blue-gray tanagers.
When questioned about the birds, Castillo only stated they were for “personal use” and thereafter invoked his right to remain silent.
Investigators mentioned that a check of relevant records revealed no evidence that Castillo had submitted the necessary documents for legally importing wildlife.
Castillo faces charges of smuggling goods into the United States. Court records suggest setting a $25,000 personal recognizance bond for him. He is scheduled to appear in court for a hearing on October 26.