Colombia Authorises Cull of Dozens of Escobar's Wild Hippos to Protect Ecosystems
Colombian officials have authorised a controversial plan to cull dozens of hippos roaming freely through a fertile and humid region in the centre of the country. The decision, announced on Monday, aims to address the growing threat these animals pose to villagers and native species, with Environment Minister Irene Vélez stating that up to 80 hippos will be affected.
Environmental and Safety Concerns Drive Decision
Environment Minister Irene Vélez explained that the cull was necessary because other population control methods, such as neutering or relocating the hippos to zoos, have proven expensive and unsuccessful. "If we don't do this we will not be able to control the population," Vélez said. "We have to take this action to preserve our ecosystems." The hippos, descendants of four animals brought to Colombia by notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s, now number around 170 according to a 2022 study by Colombia's National University.
Expanding Range and Impact on Local Communities
Recently, hippos have been spotted more than 100 kilometres north of Hacienda Nápoles, the ranch where Escobar initially introduced them. Environmental authorities warn that these large mammals threaten villagers encountered on farms and rivers, and they compete for resources with local species like river manatees. Despite this, the hippos have become a tourist attraction, with residents offering hippo-spotting tours and selling themed souvenirs.
Historical Context and Ongoing Challenges
Colombia is the only country outside Africa with a wild hippo population, originating from Escobar's private zoo at Hacienda Nápoles. Over the past 12 years, under three presidential administrations, Colombia has attempted neutering programmes, but high costs and the dangers of capturing the animals limited their success. Returning the hippos to Africa is unfeasible due to their limited gene pool and potential disease risks.
Opposition from Animal Welfare Activists
Animal welfare activists in Colombia have long opposed killing the hippos, arguing they deserve to live and that violence sets a poor example for a country with a history of internal conflict. The hippos remain a key attraction at the Nápoles ranch, now a government-confiscated theme park featuring African species. The hunting start date has not been specified, but officials emphasise the urgent need to control the population to safeguard both human safety and biodiversity.
