Flight passenger with “unexplained bulge” caught with 10 live birds in his underwear

A flight passenger was arrested at Miami International Airport after officers investigating an “unexplained bulge” allegedly discovered 10 live birds hidden in his underwear.

Airport officers have uncovered some unusual animal hiding spots, including a snake concealed inside a computer. This time, a traveler’s underwear doubled as an aviary.

Alberto Hernandez Castillo, 40, faces a charge of smuggling goods into the United States after arriving from Havana, Cuba. According to NBC 6, a federal complaint alleges he declared he wasn’t bringing any animals or wildlife into the country.

A search of his carry-on bag and fanny pack found no contraband. However, officers noticed something his luggage inspection hadn’t accounted for.

Passenger said hidden birds were for “personal use”

During questioning, officers spotted an “unexplained bulge” around Hernandez Castillo’s waist and pelvic area and said he “appeared nervous.”

A pat-down allegedly revealed six clear cylindrical containers wrapped in tape and tucked into black pockets sewn into his underwear. Inside were 10 live birds, preliminarily identified as eight yellow-faced grassquits and two blue grosbeaks.

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Hernandez Castillo reportedly told officers the birds were for his “personal use.” Investigators said he lacked the required documents to import them.

The discovery follows another unusual concealment case in Japan, where a man was arrested after allegedly packing around 200 lizards inside socks in his suitcase.

According to People, Hernandez Castillo was released on a $25,000 personal surety bond. His arraignment is scheduled for October 26.

Live animals aren’t the only unexpected discoveries at airports. Officers have also found stolen Civil War cannonballs in a passenger’s luggage and a live smoke grenade hidden inside a peanut butter jar.