A plane passenger was arrested when customs agents found small exotic birds hidden in his luggage as he attempted to smuggle them into France.

The traveller, a Belgian national whose identity was withheld by authorities, was detained at Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport in Brazil on October 18.

Federal Police discovered the animals during an X-ray inspection of his baggage, when several small boxes containing biological material appeared on the screen.

Upon searching the luggage, officers found 18 native Brazilian birds being transported in precarious conditions.

Footage shows authorities documenting the boxes containing the feathered animals.

The suspect, who intended to board a flight to France, failed to present any authorisation for the capture or transport of the creatures. He was taken to the Federal Police station on suspicion of environmental crimes.

Authorities revealed the man had visited Brazil 11 times since 2023.

The birds included two little, five green-headed, seven golden, two red-necked, and two brown tanagers, all found in a weakened state.

The Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama) confirmed the birds are native species with declining populations. They were placed under the agency's care for treatment and recovery.

The suspect is due to appear before a court and may face charges including animal cruelty, receiving stolen goods, and crimes against wildlife.