U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Miami International Airport discovered 10 live birds concealed beneath a traveler’s clothing after noticing what a federal complaint described as an “unexplained bulge” around his waist and pelvic area.
The traveler, identified as Alberto Hernandez Castillo, a native of Cuba and legal permanent resident of the United States, arrived in Miami on Oct. 4 on a flight from Havana. He had signed a customs declaration stating he was not bringing animals or wildlife into the country, according to the complaint obtained by Fox News Digital.
CBP officers selected Castillo for a secondary inspection, during which they allegedly found six clear cylindrical containers wrapped in tape and tucked inside black pockets sewn into his underwear. The containers held eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks.
When questioned about the birds, Castillo allegedly told authorities they were for his “personal use.” He later invoked his right to remain silent, the complaint said.
All 10 birds survived the trip despite being sealed inside the plastic containers. Castillo now faces smuggling-related charges stemming from the incident.
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