Bronx Zoo Aids in Rescue of Confiscated Parrots from Illegal Trade

On November 12, 2026, the Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo announced its recent assistance in the rescue of dozens of parrots confiscated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This operation is part of an ongoing collaboration aimed at addressing wildlife trafficking and providing care for animals seized from the illegal pet trade. The parrots include white-fronted Amazons and orange-fronted conures, both of which underwent veterinary examinations and are reported to be in very good health. The Bronx Zoo is committed to ensuring their well-being and finding suitable long-term placements for the birds that cannot be returned to their natural habitats. Chuck Cerbini, the Bronx Zoo Curator of Ornithology, emphasized the zoo's responsibility to offer these animals the best possible chance for a healthy future.

The Bronx Zoo's involvement in wildlife rescue is part of a broader initiative to combat illegal wildlife trade. Since 2022, the zoo has assisted USFWS in nine confiscation efforts involving dozens of parrots across seven species, some of which are classified as Endangered. The zoo's veterinary and animal care teams play a vital role in assessing the health of these birds, providing necessary medical treatment, and identifying appropriate homes for those that cannot be released back into the wild. The illegal wildlife trade poses significant threats to species, particularly birds, due to high demand in the pet and collector markets.

In recent months, the Bronx Zoo received orange-fronted conures through three separate confiscations at the U.S.–Mexico border. These parrots have passed veterinary examinations and are thriving under the care of the zoo. They have been transferred to another accredited zoo, where they will continue to receive professional care. Orange-fronted conures are classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and are included in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This species is native to the Pacific slope from western Mexico to Costa Rica and faces threats from illegal trapping for the pet trade.

In addition to orange-fronted conures, the Bronx Zoo is also caring for over a dozen white-fronted Amazons, which were confiscated by USFWS in recent months. These birds have arrived in good condition and are receiving ongoing care at the Bronx Zoo and WCS's Central Park Zoo. While white-fronted Amazons are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, they are frequently trapped for international trade and are listed under CITES Appendix II. The Bronx Zoo's efforts in providing professional care for these birds have led to positive outcomes, including the successful breeding of two red-lored Amazons that were also rescued from trafficking incidents.

The Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo continues to play a significant role in combating wildlife trafficking and protecting threatened species. Through its partnership with USFWS, the zoo is dedicated to safeguarding wildlife, supporting law enforcement efforts, and addressing the various threats facing birds and other species in their natural habitats. The successful care and rehabilitation of these confiscated parrots highlight the importance of providing them with veterinary care, stable environments, and opportunities to exhibit natural behaviors, contributing to their long-term survival and well-being.