Full Breakdown
Cuban Man Arrested for Smuggling Live Songbirds in Underwear at Miami International Airport
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers conducting a secondary inspection of a passenger arriving from Havana discovered ten live songbirds concealed in plastic tubes sewn into the traveler’s underwear. The man, identified as Alberto Hernandez Castillo, a permanent legal resident of the United States, had answered “No” on his Customs Entry Declaration regarding the transport of animals. During the pat-down, officers noted an unexplained bulge near his waist and, after opening the hidden tubes, recovered eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks. Castillo invoked his right to remain silent when questioned.
Legal Context
Both species are subject to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which prohibits the transport of protected birds without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Federal investigators noted that Castillo failed to submit the required declaration forms or obtain the necessary clearance, violating the Act and customs regulations governing wildlife imports.
Official Response
The Homeland Security Investigations criminal report details that officers escorted Castillo to a private area for a thorough search, leading to his arrest. Federal prosecutors have recommended a $25,000 bond for his release pending trial, though a court date has not yet been set.
Data Summary
- Passengers: 1 (Alberto Hernandez Castillo)
- Flight: World Atlantic Flight 503 from Havana to Miami International Airport
- Birds seized: 10 live songbirds (8 yellow-faced grassquits, 2 blue grosbeaks)
- Proposed bond: $25,000
Implications
The case underscores ongoing efforts to curb illegal wildlife trafficking, a market that frequently supplies pets and participants in singing competitions. Violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act can result in substantial fines and imprisonment, reinforcing the importance of thorough customs inspections for protecting protected species.