Keel-billed Toucans Rescued at Border Receive Care and New Homes
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Fourteen keel-billed toucans, rescued after being smuggled into the United States, have been rehabilitated and placed in accredited zoos. The birds, which were found sedated and hidden in a vehicle dashboard, suffered from malnutrition and stress. Ten have been transferred to other institutions, while four remain at the Bronx Zoo for public viewing and future breeding.
Facts First
- Fourteen keel-billed toucans were rescued at the Otay Mesa port of entry in California.
- The birds were found sedated and hidden in a vehicle dashboard, suffering from malnutrition and severe stress.
- All 14 toucans were rehabilitated at the Bronx Zoo over several months.
- Ten toucans have been transferred to Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institutions.
- Four toucans remain at the Bronx Zoo, with two available for public viewing and two intended as a future breeding pair.
What Happened
US Fish and Wildlife Service agents seized fourteen keel-billed toucans at the Otay Mesa port of entry in California. The birds were found sedated, bound to restrict movement and noise, and hidden in the dashboard of a vehicle. They arrived at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Bronx Zoo on July 31st, 2025, exhibiting signs of malnutrition, severe stress, and metabolic issues. The zoo's Ornithology and Zoological Health Departments provided specialized care and rehabilitation over several months. Ten of the toucans have since been transferred to Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institutions. Four rehabilitated toucans remained at the Bronx Zoo, with two having recovered from fractured legs caused by malnutrition.
Why this Matters to You
This rescue highlights the ongoing efforts to protect wildlife from illegal trade, which you may support through conservation organizations or by choosing accredited zoos for visits. The successful rehabilitation and placement of these birds into conservation breeding programs may contribute to the long-term survival of a species listed as Near-Threatened. It also demonstrates the network of agencies and institutions working to intercept and care for smuggled animals, a system that could help protect other species from similar threats.
What's Next
The two male toucans at the Bronx Zoo are now available for visitors in the World of Birds exhibit. The other two birds at the zoo are off-exhibit and are intended to be a future breeding pair. The ten toucans transferred to other AZA-accredited institutions will participate in conservation breeding and education programs. The AZA Wildlife Confiscations Network is likely to continue supporting such rescues. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) continues its work across the toucan's native range to protect habitats and stop wildlife poaching.