SAN DIEGO — Federal authorities thwarted a smuggling attempt when they discovered 50 birds. destined to be sold for cockfights. that were stuffed in nylon stockings in the back of a pickup truck headed into Mexico, officials said Wednesday. U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents discovered the 46 roosters and four hens during an inspection at the San Ysidro border crossing about 10:15 a.m. Monday. The birds were found in a secret compartment in the truck bed, stacked on top of each other and stuffed in nylon stockings with their legs bound by Velcro. Authorities believe the birds had been sedated with alcohol for the trip. Sixteen of the birds were found dead, and the surviving birds appeared to be MORE
