How many invasive hippos does Colombia plan to cull?

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Colombia Plans to Cull Approximately 80 Invasive Hippos

Colombia's Environment Ministry estimates there are around 200 invasive hippos currently living in the wild, all descended from a group originally brought to South America by Pablo Escobar. Following unsuccessful attempts to control their population through sterilisation, the government has approved a plan to cull approximately 80 of these animals.
Origin of the Invasive Hippo Population

The invasive hippos in Colombia trace their origins to four animals imported in the 1980s by the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar for his private zoo at his Hacienda Nápoles estate. After Escobar's death in 1993, these hippos escaped confinement and established a colony along the Magdalena River. This population has since grown significantly, becoming the largest hippo colony outside of Africa.
Ecological and Social Impact

These hippos are now considered an invasive species and are reported to be destabilising native ecosystems. Beyond their environmental impact, they have also posed a threat to local residents, with instances of attacks occurring. The presence of these large, non-native animals in the wild presents ongoing challenges for conservation and public safety.
Sterilisation Efforts and Culling Decision

Previous efforts to manage the growing hippo population focused on sterilisation as a method to curb reproduction. However, these attempts have proven unsuccessful in significantly controlling the numbers. Consequently, the government has moved towards a more drastic measure, approving a plan to cull around 80 of the invasive hippos.

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How many invasive hippos does Colombia plan to cull?

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