Uruguay returns 48 seized wild animals to Argentina

Uruguay has returned 48 wild animals to Argentina following seizures made during operations against illegal trafficking. The animals were transported across the San Martín international bridge.

The group includes eight yellow cardinals, a species currently facing extinction, 19 land turtles, 20 parakeets, and one common soldier ant. Most of the yellow cardinals had been found being kept as caged birds in private residences without proper documentation.

Upon arrival in Argentina, the animals will be placed into conservation programs. Authorities noted that wildlife capture remains one of the primary threats to the survival of the yellow cardinal species.