07-05-2025
Protected parakeets found in man's boots, wrapped in pantyhose
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (WJW) – A dozen federally protected birds were seized at the Mexico border in California after six of the birds were discovered stuffed in a man's boots, and the others were later found crammed inside the seat of his car.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the 12 orange-fronted parakeets were seized at the Otay Port of Entry in California following an alleged smuggling attempt.
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In a post on Facebook, the USFWS shared pictures of the birds and said they were tied at the feet and wrapped in pantyhose.
'Unfortunately, three of the birds passed away. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is actively working to save the remaining parakeets and provide appropriate veterinary care,' wrote the USFWS on Tuesday.
Seized orange-fronted parakeets. Credit: Rebecca Fabbri/USFWS
The orange-fronted parakeets were found tied at the feet and wrapped in pantyhose. Credit: USFWS
One of the seized orange-fronted parakeets. Credit: Rebecca Fabbri/USFWS
Seized orange-fronted parakeets. Credit: Rebecca Fabbri/USFWS
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of California, Naim Lajud Libien, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested and charged.
The incident took place on April 29.
'The Customs and Border Protection officer noticed bulges around his ankles. For safety reasons, the officer conducted a pat down and discovered what appeared to be birds wrapped in nylon stockings concealed inside the boots,' read the release.
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According to officials, six birds were removed from the boots – three from the right and three from the left. The following day, officials said Customs and Border Protection personnel could hear birds crying from the impounded vehicle and discovered six more orange parakeets inside the seat cushion of the passenger seat.
The orange-fronted parakeets were found tied at the feet and wrapped in pantyhose. Credit: USFWS
According to the USFWS, the orange-fronted parakeet is protected by the Wild Bird Conservation Act and the Global Conservation for Wildlife.
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