A Cuban national with legal residency in the United States was detained at Miami International Airport after arriving on a flight from Havana carrying 11 live birds concealed in his clothing, according to court documents cited by U.S. media outlets.
The arrest took place on Tuesday, October 6, marking the second suspected bird smuggling incident detected at this airport within just three days, both involving Cuban passengers coming from the island.
Inspection Uncovers Hidden Birds
As reported by NBC6 South Florida, the individual, identified by the initials R. P. Q., underwent an inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. Initially, no suspicious items were found in his luggage. However, a more thorough body search revealed several plastic containers hidden under his clothing.
Officials discovered 11 live birds inside hair roller tubes, which had small holes for ventilation and were wrapped with mesh and black electrical tape.
Details of the Smuggling Attempt
According to the affidavit filed with federal authorities, the birds were identified as five Cuban bullfinches and six Cuban melodious finches, species known for their songs and valued by bird enthusiasts. The accused stated to investigators that he intended to breed and sell the birds in the U.S. for between $100 and $120 each.
The Cuban man faces federal charges for alleged smuggling of goods into the United States. As of now, there is no information on a conviction or a public statement from his defense.
Another Similar Arrest at the Same Airport
This incident follows just days after another Cuban, a 40-year-old identified by the initials A. H. C., was apprehended at the same airport upon arriving from Cuba. In that case, agents noticed an unusual bulge in the passenger's clothing during an inspection and found 10 live birds hidden in plastic containers sewn into his underwear.
The birds were identified as eight grassquits and two blue grosbeaks. According to the federal complaint, the man initially claimed the birds were for "personal use" before invoking his right to remain silent.
The accused was released on a $25,000 bond while the legal process continues. Both cases involve Cuban nationals with lawful permanent residency in the United States, though authorities have not indicated any connection between the two incidents.
History of Bird Smuggling from Cuba
Authorities have previously documented other instances of passengers transporting concealed birds from Cuba. In August 2025, a 22-year-old Cuban was arrested in Miami after authorities found 40 live birds hidden on his person. Similarly, in February 2026, Cuban customs officials detected an attempt to smuggle 28 birds in tubes attached to a passenger's body at Havana's José Martí International Airport.
Understanding Bird Smuggling Cases Involving Cuba
What types of birds were involved in the Miami smuggling cases?
The birds involved in the Miami smuggling cases were Cuban bullfinches, Cuban melodious finches, grassquits, and blue grosbeaks.
What are the legal consequences for smuggling birds into the U.S.?
Individuals caught smuggling birds into the United States can face federal charges, which may result in fines, imprisonment, and deportation for non-citizens.
Have there been previous incidents of bird smuggling from Cuba?
Yes, there have been several documented cases of bird smuggling from Cuba, including incidents in August 2025 and February 2026.