Published on Wednesday, May 15, 2024

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Agents from the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) took into custody a tico (term used for a native of Costa Rica) surname Morales (33) on suspicion of keeping and trafficking wild animals.

According to the OIJ report, the investigation began with an anonymous tip regarding a man who kept many Emu birds and black river turtles on his property.

The emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is a flightless bird native to Australia. It is the second tallest living bird, behind only the ratite, an African species. The bird has soft brown feathers, long necks and legs, and may reach a height of 6 feet 3 inches. They are robust bipedal runners who can cover long distances and sprint at speeds of up to 30 mph. They are omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of plants and insects.

Because this sort of wild animals are not endemic to Costa Rica, it is assumed they were brought in by its owners.

The black wood turtle (Rhinoclemmys funerea), often known as the black river turtle, is one of Costa Rica's numerous turtle species.

After the authorities conducted an investigation, it was discovered that the suspect allegedly was selling such types of animals on his social media.

A few days later, agents raided Morales' house located in Paraiso Canton, Cartago Province, and discovered three adult emus, an emu chick and more than 30 turtles.

The animals and other items were confiscated as evidence in the case. The animals were later taken into custody by park rangers and veterinarians from the National System of Conservation Areas at the Cartago station.

The suspect was transferred to the Public Ministry's cells and is awaiting a judge's orders on pre-trial measures against him as suspected of maintaining and trading wild species.

Hunting wild animals or keeping them captive is illegal in Costa Rica. People found guilty of keeping wild species in captivity may face a fine ranging from $600 to $26,000 or potentially a one to three-year jail sentence under Wildlife Conservation Law No.7317.

Authorities stated that anyone can lodge anonymous complaints about wild animals that have been hunted or kept in captivity by calling the confidential bilingual 10-digit tip line at 800-8000-645.

A similar case happened in April when agents from the Prosecutor's Office for Wildlife Conservation Unit rescued one porcupine and one emu that were kept in captivity on private property in San José.

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What have you heard from people who keep wild animals in captivity in your community? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com