Customs officials at New York’s JFK International Airport say they found 70 live finches hidden inside hair rollers.
Customs agents at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport have arrested a man attempting to smuggle live birds into the US.
Authorities said the 70 live finches were hidden inside hair rollers in a black duffel bag.
The passenger arrived on a flight from Georgetown, Guyana.
Officials believe the birds were brought to the US to participate in a singing contest.
Spectators bet on how many times the finches chirp, and a winning male finch can sell for up to $10,000.
“CBP Agriculture Specialists are the first line of defense to prevent the introduction of animal diseases that have the potential to cause significant damage to the nation’s agricultural economy,” said Troy Miller, director of field operations, New York Field Office.
Earlier in the year, customs agents intercepted another 20 finches at JFK Airport. They had been hidden in a similar fashion and also arrived from Guyana.
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