Bogotá environmental authorities seize 23 wild animals

The Bogotá District Secretary of Environment has seized 23 wild animals from a university institution located in the Bella Suiza neighborhood of the Usaquén locality. The inspection identified 15 boa constrictors and eight turtles of various species, which were being kept for exhibition and educational purposes.

Environmental officials discovered administrative inconsistencies in the documentation provided by the establishment to prove the legal possession of the animals. As a result, the Secretary of Environment took immediate custody of the reptiles. Veterinary teams have transferred the animals to specialized centers for clinical examinations and rehabilitation protocols. Biologists will evaluate their health to determine if they can be returned to their natural habitats or if they require continuous management.

The district environmental authority continues to maintain strict surveillance to combat illegal trafficking and protect biodiversity. Authorities have urged citizens to report injured or at-risk animals through official telephone lines or the Wildlife Liaison Office at the El Salitre Transport Terminal.