Ornithofauna seized by enforcement agencies from 2013 to 2022

Abstract

In Brazil, birds are the most common targets of wildlife trade. Their diversity, beautiful plumage and elaborate songs are differentials among other animals. Therefore, they are coveted either by breeders, to compose zoo collections, or even to become pets to the general population. The Federal Highway Police (PRF), integrated with the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA), aims to inspect and preserve the Brazilian natural environment. Most animals seized by enforcement agencies are sent to the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centers (CETAS). This study aimed to evaluate illegal trade of wild birds in Brazil by analyzing, identifying and quantifying birds seized by IBAMA and PRF in Brazilian territory, to expand the knowledge of the scientific and popular community about the growth of poaching. This study used data from notices of seizure from 2013 to 2019 (IBAMA) and from 2018 to 2022 (PRF), both obtained via open databases of the corresponding agencies. In data consultation, information was collected on the number of species as well as the total number of animals seized from wildlife. During the evaluated period, the highest incidences of seizure correspond to the Columbiformes and Passeriformes orders. Thus, we identified the preference of certain species, families, and orders in illegal trade of birds in Brazil.