Environmental Warning: Which bird is most affected by illegal ownership in Mendoza?

The Ministry of Energy and Environment warned that the illegal possession of wild birds is a crime and a form of animal abuse , and reiterated that there are reporting mechanisms. In this context, it highlighted that one of the most representative cases in Mendoza is that of the seven-knife or bone-chipper (Saltator aurantiirostris), a species seriously threatened by illegal capture.

"This bird is commonly used in clandestine confrontations, where fights are organized that often end in the death of the animal. These practices, in addition to constituting a crime, involve serious abuse and the exploitation of animal suffering for profit," said Ignacio Haudet, Director of Biodiversity and Ecopark.

The Seven Knives has become a symbol of the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking , and its rescue represents Mendoza's commitment to wildlife.

The department warned that the consequences of illegal captivity are multiple and devastating, and that, if they do not lose their lives, many of the affected birds suffer severe injuries, such as:

• Head injuries caused by blows while trying to escape.
• Muscle atrophy and obesity, a result of forced sedentary lifestyle and an inadequate diet.
• Loss of phalanges due to self-mutilation in cages with wire floors or abrasive materials.
• Wing and feather injuries caused by constant friction with bars and the inability to fly.

  Birds seven knives

  

  Photo: Courtesy of the Ministry of Energy and Environment of Mendoza

Likewise, the Environment Department maintained that thanks to the collaborative work of specialists , many birds are able to rehabilitate, heal their wounds, and recover essential behaviors to be reintroduced into their natural habitat. Although not all birds survive the damage, each rehabilitation process is a step toward ecosystem restoration .

The Ministry of Energy and Environment reminds us that wildlife protection is a shared responsibility. Reporting illegal trafficking, hunting, or possession is not only an ethical duty but also a key tool for safeguarding the province's natural heritage.

"The community can collaborate in their protection by reporting cases of illegal capture, trade, or possession and acting responsibly in the care of our native fauna," the ministry urged Mendoza residents.

He explained that the recovery of wild birds that have fallen victim to illegal possession is much more than an act of compassion: it represents a concrete action in favor of biodiversity conservation and ecological balance. "Each rescue gives these animals the opportunity to regain their freedom, reestablish their natural role in ecosystems, and, in many cases, save their lives," the department emphasized.

The community can actively collaborate by reporting situations of illegal hunting, possession, or trade, as well as by reporting injured wildlife.

The enabled channels are:

• Ministry of Energy and Environment website: Ministry of Energy and Environment

• Wildlife Department: 261 750 3417, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Rural Security Police: 911.

• Email: [email protected]

• Environment Portal ticket system.