Bogotá Releases 247 Rescued Wild Animals to Nature

On September 12, 2026, Bogotá's District Secretariat of Environment celebrated National Biodiversity Day by releasing 247 rescued wild animals back into their natural habitats. This significant event marked the culmination of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate wildlife affected by illegal trade. The animals included 75 icoteas, 51 morrocoy turtles, 43 canaries, and various other species, all recovered in Bogotá and rehabilitated at the local wildlife care center. This release was part of a broader initiative led by Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán's administration, which has successfully returned a total of 8,562 animals to the wild. Each of these animals represents a second chance at life and highlights the importance of halting illegal wildlife trafficking.

Adriana Soto, the secretary of the District Secretariat of Environment, emphasized the necessity of protecting wildlife and the critical role of community awareness in this effort. The animals were carefully transported from Bogotá to the department of Cesar, where they were released in three natural areas: the San Antonio and Caño Alonso nature reserves, and the Gamarra swamp. This transportation required meticulous planning to ensure their well-being during the journey, which lasted 48 hours. Trained personnel accompanied the animals, providing specialized care, feeding, and hydration throughout the trip while minimizing stress and exposure to heat.

Upon arrival in Cesar, the animals were given time to acclimatize before their release. The release sites were chosen for their suitability and safety for the species involved. This event not only commemorated National Biodiversity Day but also highlighted Bogotá's ongoing commitment to wildlife recovery and conservation efforts. Since the start of Mayor Galán's administration, a total of 15,540 wild animals have been recovered, with 1,527 of them being victims of illegal trade. In addition to releasing animals back into their natural habitats, the administration has also relocated 255 animals that could not safely return to the wild to specialized institutions. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to wildlife protection and rehabilitation in Bogotá.

The release of these 247 animals serves as a reminder of the importance of biodiversity and the need for collective action to safeguard the natural environment for future generations.