Colombia has authorized plans to cull up to 80 hippos, descendants of those originally brought by drug lord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s. The environment minister, Irene Vélez, announced the decision on Monday, citing unsuccessful and expensive previous methods like neutering or relocating the animals.
Key Takeaways
Colombia has authorized plans to cull up to 80 hippos descended from those originally brought by drug lord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s. The hippos have become an invasive species, threatening local ecosystems and villagers.
- Colombia will cull up to 80 hippos descended from Pablo Escobar's private zoo
- Hippos pose a threat to villagers and displace native species like river manatees
- Previous methods like neutering and relocation proved too expensive or ineffective
- Animal welfare activists oppose the cull, calling it cruel and setting a poor example for Colombia
The hippos, now considered an invasive species, threaten local villagers and displace native wildlife such as river manatees. A study published by Colombia's National University estimated that around 170 hippos were roaming freely in the country in 2022. The animals have been spotted more than 60 miles north of the ranch, where Escobar initially introduced them.
The government has tried various methods to control the population over the past 12 years, including neutering and relocating the hippos to zoos. However, these initiatives have had limited success due to high costs and logistical challenges. The animals cannot be returned to their natural habitat in Africa because of their limited gene pool and potential diseases.
Despite the environmental concerns, the hippos have become a tourist attraction, with residents offering hippo-spotting tours and selling related souvenirs. Animal welfare activists oppose the cull, arguing that it sets a poor example for a country that has experienced decades of internal conflict. Senator Andrea Padilla described the plan as 'cruel' and accused government officials of taking the easy way out.
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