A recent operation by the Mexican authorities The U.S. seized more than 3.400 peacock turtles (Trachemys venusta and, in some reports, Trachemys scripta) on a highway in the state of Chiapas. The animals were being transported crammed into cardboard boxes and were destined for illegal trafficking for sale on the black market, mainly in Mexico City.
The operation, carried out by different government agencies The Attorney General's Office, the National Guard, the Army, the local police, and the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) detected the shipment during a routine inspection at kilometer 46 of the highway connecting San Cristóbal de las Casas with Chiapa de Corzo. The animals, mostly young, were found in poor condition and lacked documentation proving their legal transfer, an act that violates current environmental regulations.
Details of the seizure and legal status
During the security device A man identified as José "N" was arrested, who admitted that his intention was to transport the turtles to the nation's capital for illegal sale. Authorities placed the detainee at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor's Office, and an investigation was opened to determine his legal responsibility.
Between 3.427 and 3.450 turtles have been counted. Within the same operation, according to official sources, all of them were of the species commonly known as the peacock turtle. These reptiles, also called "hicotea" or "hawksbill turtle," are considered to be in need of special protection due to their overexploitation for food, as ornaments, or as pets, according to the University of Veracruz.
The fate of the turtles and the institutional response
After the seizure, Profepa took responsibility for the specimens., transporting them to an accredited Environmental Management Unit (EMA) for the necessary veterinary care and assessment. Specialists evaluated their general health, which was affected by the stress and overcrowding during transport.
Profepa initiated an administrative procedure and announced that it will continue monitoring the animals to prioritize, whenever possible, their return to the wild. The environmental authority emphasized the seriousness of the illegal trade in species and has asked for public collaboration in reporting any activity that threatens wildlife.
Characteristics and risks of the peacock turtle
The peacock tortoise (Trachemys venusta or scripta) It is the largest of the common slider turtles in Mexico. It can reach up to 48 cm in length and weigh between 4 and 5 kilograms as an adult. Its shell is elongated, olive green, with bands and contrasting shades of yellow, orange, and black. Its skin, head, and legs feature yellow and dark lines, giving it a striking and distinctive appearance.
These turtles have the ability to regulate their body temperature, which allows them to spend less time in the sun and optimize their metabolism. They are kept under special protection due to the pressure they face from illegal capture and trade both in Mexico and abroad.
Illegal collection and trafficking not only directly affect the species but also represent a concrete threat to national biodiversity. Authorities reiterate their commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and preserving Mexico's natural heritage.
The coordinated actions that led to this seizure and rescue of the peacock turtles demonstrate the importance of inter-institutional collaboration and active surveillance along the most high-risk routes. What began as a clandestine transport of reptiles served as an example of the need to protect wildlife in the face of the illegal trade that persists in various regions of the country.
