Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico - Environmental officials in the state of Jalisco have rescued 30 veiled chameleons from being shipped to Mexico City via a parcel company.

Officers from the Federal Procurator's Office for Environmental Protection were called to the parcel company after federal police officers inspected a package and made the discovery. Inside, 30 chameleons were found wrapped in three blankets.

All were found to be in poor health, suffering from dehydration and lack of food. All 30 were transferred to medical facilities at a wildlife shelter for proper care and shelter.

The veiled chameleon is listed on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and is a protected species.

Officials intend to investigate the shipment of the reptiles, noting that the container used for transportation threatened the dignified and respectful treatment of the chameleons.

Original article