I'm afraid I have to agree with you. Here in Miami things are different than 
in onther places. It could be because so much enters through our ports and 
airports that no real control has been taken over. This is generally what 
happens with an illigal import. The person gets a fine according to what was 
imported. That bird then goes to qaurantine. If its a CITES species then its 
transfer to a Federal quarantene Dep. From then it goes to a Zoo or to a 
specialized breeder licenced  to keep such birds. If the bird confiscated is 
not a CITES, then its sold to the public in an auction to wich I attended 
once. These birds were not banded. Therefore they are no different that the 
ones on the street or pet shops being sold. Also it is my understanding that 
withing the quarantene personel there is a bit of black market on these 
birds. Just to give an example, only about twenty birds were auds.
For example, only about twenty birds from Cuba were auction. In a year, I bet 
that a lot more than that were auctioned. I myself have these Cuban finches. 
They were bought from a pet shop. I don't know if they were really
imported or domestically raised. I strongly believe that there are species 
which need a lot of help to ensure their survival. And importers have gotten 
the attention that they deserve because of their uncaring acts. For example,
200 dead birds in a suitcase. These people should be punished. Yet if it 
would'nt be for breeders and exotic collectors, a lot of species would now be 
extinct. Many times in our history decisions have been made on what we the 
people can and can not due by people who will not be affected eighther
way. Not allways caring for the cause in the long run. If I go to Mexico, I 
should be allowed to legally bring a pair of whatever bird is going to be 
sold regardless on theirs streets. Not a hundred, a pair.  
 
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