Huila releases over 600 rehabilitated wildlife back to nature in 2026

The regional environmental authority in Huila, Colombia, reported that more than 600 wild animals were released back into their natural habitats during 2026. The figure comes from the Corporación Autónoma Regional del Alto Magdalena (CAM) and was announced as part of the National Wildlife Day celebrations.

CAM said it had treated 1,079 individual specimens this year, including 394 birds, 372 mammals and 313 reptiles. Recent releases included 14 animals such as five currucutú owls (Megascops choliba), two guaras, five boas, a caracara and a green iguana. The owls and other species underwent veterinary care, rehabilitation and monitoring before being deemed fit for release.

The agency highlighted 111 anti‑trafficking operations, checkpoints and community outreach activities aimed at curbing illegal wildlife trade and preventing the keeping of wild animals as pets. Local residents played a key role by reporting injured or disoriented animals, which were then rescued by the police and transferred to CAM’s wildlife care facilities.