Charges filed for illegal importation of ringneck parakeets

Ringneck parakeets, notable for their striking colors, come mainly from India, as well as some countries in southwest Africa. (northernparrots.com)

By THE STAR STAFF

Criminal charges were filed last week against an individual for violating articles 1 and 6 of Law 241-1999, better known as the “New Wildlife Law of Puerto Rico,” for illegal possession of 116 ringneck parakeets on a farm in the Santana neighborhood of Sabana Grande.

Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez announced the filing of charges, adding that it stemmed from the investigative work of DNER Ranger Corps members, who on Sept. 8 intervened with the aforementioned individual in Sabana Grande while he was in the act of illegally importing the parakeets.

“Ringneck parakeets are not part of our fauna and ecosystem; their possession and sale is prohibited in Puerto Rico,” Quiles said. “With this filing of charges, a clear and forceful message is sent that prohibited exotic species are not to be trafficked.”

Ringneck parakeets, notable for their striking colors, come mainly from India, as well as some countries in southwest Africa.

“We recognize the work and dedication of the members of the Ranger Corps who worked on this case since it began in our office within Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport with the work of a group of Internet technicians, among others,” the DNER chief added.

According to the preliminary investigation, the individual was in business selling the birds at prices that fluctuated between $250 and $300 per parakeet.

The birds were transferred to the Center for the Rehabilitation of Native Species and Management of Exotic Species, located in the Cambalache forest nature reserve in Arecibo.