Authorities in Ecuador seize 32 marine iguanas at the airport and arrest a Russian woman
Summary
Authorities in Ecuador arrested a Russian woman at Quito airport for attempting to smuggle 32 marine iguanas from the Galapagos Islands. The iguanas were found weak and dehydrated and were taken to a conservation center for care.Key Facts
- A Russian woman was caught trying to smuggle 32 marine iguanas in eight plastic containers inside a suitcase.
- The woman was at Quito airport and was traveling to Iceland.
- The iguanas were weak and dehydrated when found.
- Veterinarians moved the animals to a conservation center for recovery.
- The woman may be charged with wildlife trafficking, facing up to three years in prison.
- Marine iguanas live only in the Galapagos Islands and are a vulnerable species.
- The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site due to their unique biodiversity.
- The islands are located about 620 miles (1,000 km) west of mainland Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean.
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