Fourteen trafficked toucans have been rescued at the US-Mexico border. After going through rehabilitation, Toucans have an opportunity to aid in conservation efforts and raise public awareness regarding wildlife crime. 

Workers from the US Fish and Wildlife Service took responsibility for the keel-billed toucans after they were found and took them to safety at the Otay Mesa port of entry in California. 

They got help from members of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo, who ensured that the animals were cared for until a suitable decision about their future could be reached. When found, the toucans had been sedated, restrained to prevent them from making much movement and sound, and concealed within the dashboard of the vehicle, resulting in an extremely poor condition.  

Keel-billed toucans are indigenous to the tropical forests of Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America, and are protected under the Wild Bird Conservation Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. When they arrived at the Bronx Zoo, all fourteen toucans exhibited signs of malnutrition, significant stress, and metabolic complications. 

Through the combined effort between the Bronx Zoo’s Ornithology and Zoological Health Departments, the birds received specialized care and rehabilitation over several months.  

“Thanks to the commitment of our animal care and veterinary teams, we were able to stabilize and rehabilitate them,” stated Chuck Cerbini, Curator of Ornithology at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo.  

Ten of the toucans were transferred to institutions by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, where they will now play a role in conservation breeding and educational programs. 

Two of the keel-billed toucans have healed from fractured legs caused by malnutrition and will remain at the Bronx Zoo. Another two of the toucans, both males, are on display in the World of Birds exhibit. As well as another two of the rescued toucans are off-exhibit and are intended to form a future breeding pair.

The rescue and rehabilitation of the 14 keel-billed toucans helps the vital role of conservation efforts in protecting these unique birds. By raising awareness and providing care, there is hope in contributing to their survival and the preservation of their natural habitats.