Puerto Rico's Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) captured 99 exotic species across the island last weekend, agency Secretary Waldemar Quiles reported Tuesday. The haul, gathered between Thursday and Sunday, included 80 boa constrictors, eight native boas, four reticulated pythons, three caimans and four turpial birds. The animals were taken to the DRNA's Center for Rehabilitation of Native Species and Management of Exotic Species, located in Bosque Cambalache in Arecibo, whose management Quiles credited to director Lt.
Ángel Atienza of the Cuerpo de Vigilantes. The turpial birds, native to Venezuela, were removed from a home in the Guayama region after DRNA received tips about possible illegal sales of the birds, which cannot be kept in captivity or sold. The three caimans were captured in San Juan.
Circumstances surrounding the other captures were not specified. Quiles urged residents to keep reporting sightings of exotic species by calling (787) 999-2200, extensions 2910 or 2911, or via the agency's social media. He noted the Center, created in 2003, originally housed captured animals until homes were found in other U.S. jurisdictions, but since September of last year its mission has expanded to include rehabilitating the animals.