A 40-year-old Cuban man, who holds permanent residency in the United States, was apprehended at Miami International Airport (MIA) on Sunday. Federal agents discovered ten live birds concealed within plastic tubes hidden in his underwear, as outlined in a criminal complaint.
The individual, identified in court documents by the initials A.H.C., arrived on a World Atlantic Airlines flight from Havana, according to a federal complaint obtained by Local10.
The document states that a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer noticed "an unusual bulge at the front of the pelvic/waist area" of the passenger and noted that he appeared "nervous."
The traveler had declared that he had nothing to report. However, during a subsequent search, agents reportedly found six transparent cylindrical plastic containers, wrapped in tape and mesh material at the openings, sewn into pockets in his underwear.
According to the complaint, the tubes contained eight Cuban grassquits and two indigo buntings, species protected in the United States under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Authorities claim that the man failed to provide documentation authorizing the importation of the birds.
During questioning, A.H.C. initially stated that the birds were for "personal use" before invoking his right to remain silent, as noted in the complaint.
The Cuban appeared in federal court in Miami on Monday and was released on a $25,000 personal surety bond. He faces a federal charge related to the alleged smuggling of goods.
Recurring Bird Smuggling Pattern Between Cuba and Miami
The clandestine transport of birds between Cuba and Florida has been detected multiple times by authorities.
In 2016, another Cuban was intercepted at MIA with nine birds, including a Cuban grassquit and an indigo bunting, which authorities said were hidden in plastic tubes within his clothing and a fanny pack.
In August 2025, a 22-year-old Cuban man was arrested at Miami Airport after authorities claimed to have found 40 live birds concealed on his body.
Months later, in February of this year, Cuban customs officials reported thwarting an attempt at Havana's José Martí International Airport to smuggle 28 birds hidden in tubes attached to a passenger's body out of the country.
Beyond the potential harm to the animals during transit, U.S. authorities warn that bringing in birds without proper health checks poses a risk of avian disease transmission.
Key Questions About Bird Smuggling and Legal Consequences
What are the legal repercussions for smuggling birds into the United States?
Individuals caught smuggling birds can face federal charges, including fines and imprisonment. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects many bird species, making unauthorized importation illegal.
Why are certain bird species protected under U.S. law?
Certain bird species are protected to conserve wildlife, prevent extinction, and maintain ecological balance. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act aims to safeguard these species from exploitation and harm.
What health risks are associated with smuggling birds?
Unregulated importation of birds can carry risks of spreading avian diseases, which can affect both animal and human health. Proper health checks are essential to prevent the transmission of such diseases.