Lima, Nov 19 (EFE) The Peruvian Police have rescued hundreds of rare animals, including squirrel monkeys, yellow-foot tortoises, iguanas and diminutive brotogeris parakeet that were being sold illegally in downtown Lima.

The sellers kept the animals in cramped cages without food or water.

Squirrel monkeys, yellow-foot tortoises, yellow side-necked turtles, iguanas, brotogeris parakeets, toads, lizards and macaw were among the animals rescued Tuesday, an official said, adding that poachers captured these animals from Peru jungles.

Officials said the operation against the illegal wildlife trade will continue in the country.