NEW YORK — A man has been arrested after federal authorities say he tried to smuggle dozens of birds inside his clothes at John F. Kennedy Airport.

Authorities say they stopped Kevin Andre McKenzie on Monday and found 35 live finches. 

Each bird was hidden inside a hair curler, then concealed in his suit jacket and beneath his pants legs.

Courtesy: U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York

McKenzie had arrived in New York on a flight from Guyana.

Prosecutors say McKenzie was offered $3,000 to transport the birds.

They believe the birds would've ultimately be entered in singing contests in Brooklyn and Queens.

Attendees make wagers on the competitions, and some of the most valuable birds can sell for more than $10,000.

Many believe finches from Guyana to be the best singers.

McKenzie was released on $25,000 bond.