Ecuadorian authorities detained a Russian woman on Saturday at Quito’s airport after she was found attempting to smuggle at least 32 marine iguanas from the Galapagos Islands. The reptiles were discovered inside eight plastic containers concealed within her suitcase as she prepared to travel to Iceland.

The marine iguanas, a species native exclusively to the Galapagos Islands, were described by veterinary staff as “feeble and dehydrated.” They were promptly transferred to a conservation centre where they will receive care until their condition improves. The Galapagos, situated approximately 620 miles west of mainland Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean, are renowned for their unique biodiversity, including the marine iguanas and giant tortoises.

Wildlife trafficking is a serious offense in Ecuador, and if convicted, the woman faces a potential prison term of up to three years. Authorities emphasized the importance of protecting the islands’ endemic species, which are vulnerable to threats posed by illegal trade and environmental disruption. The investigation into the incident is ongoing as officials seek to understand the circumstances behind the attempted smuggling effort.