PUEBLA - Humane World for Animals Mexico and Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) conducted a joint deployment in Tlacotepec, Puebla, to raise awareness and help curb illegal wildlife trade during the “Fiesta del Pájaro,” held each year in early July. This effort is part of a collaborative agreement signed earlier this year between PROFEPA and Humane World for Animals, which includes coordinated law enforcement efforts against wildlife trafficking, public awareness campaigns and specialized training for authorities responsible for wildlife protection regulations.
“The Illegal sale of birds and other endangered animals not only puts wildlife at risk, it undermines conservation efforts and harms local communities that depend on healthy ecosystems,” said Anton Aguilar, executive director of Humane World for Animals Mexico. “Wild animals should be left in the wild. Wild birds are often taken from nests at an early age, mistreated during transport, and in many cases do not survive.”
With the support and engagement of local municipal authorities, PROFEPA and Humane World for Animals conducted targeted outreach to residents and visitors from surrounding communities, promoting respect for biodiversity and helping protect species threatened by trafficking and illegal trade. Activities included distribution of flyers, presentations and activities at the public market and a local elementary school attended by 600 children.
One rationale for targeted outreach is the fact that local residents often rent their homes to bird sellers during the Fiesta.
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