Pablo Escobar’s Hippos in Colombia: A Looming Environmental Challenge
In the wake of Pablo Escobar’s demise in 1993, his legacy extends beyond drug trafficking. The notorious drug lord’s private zoo once housed 166 hippos, descendants of which now roam freely in Colombia’s Magdalena River. These hippos, dubbed “cocaine hippos,” pose an ecological threat.
Colombian authorities face a dilemma: how to manage this burgeoning hippo population. Efforts have included sterilization and relocation, but the hippos continue to thrive, particularly in the marshy Antioquia region. Their presence is now considered invasive.
To address this, the government plans drastic measures: sterilization for some, relocation abroad for others, and unfortunately, euthanasia for a portion. The goal is to prevent their numbers from reaching 1,000 by 2035.
These hefty creatures, weighing up to three tons, are infamous for their aggression and have caused around 500 human deaths annually. As Colombian experts grapple with the challenge, they emphasize the need for responsible action to protect both humans and native wildlife.
Pablo Escobar’s wealth, amassed through drug operations, remains a dark chapter in history, leaving behind a legacy of ecological consequences.
Source: bbc.com; cbsnews.com; yahoo.com; msn.com; devdiscourse.com; apnews.com; gettyimages.com;
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