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Colombia will euthanize Pablo Escobar’s invasive ‘cocaine hippos’
After attempts at relocation and sterilization have failed, invasive hippos introduced by the infamous drug lord will be culled, the country announced
After two years of failed attempts at relocation and sterilization, Colombia’s government has decided it will euthanize 80 of the at least 169 “cocaine hippos” that were once owned by notorious drug trafficker Pablo Escobar. The decision is triggering divided reactions among scientists and activists.
“Without this action it is impossible to control them,” said Colombia’s environment minister Irene Vélez at a press conference on Monday. Citing estimates that the population could reach at least 500 individuals by 2030, “affecting our ecosystems and native species,” she added that “it is our responsibility to take this action.”