Colombia plans to reduce its wild hippo population, which originated from animals brought to the country in the 1980s by Pablo Escobar. Officials now classify the hippos as an invasive species that threaten local ecosystems and nearby communities, The New York Times reported.
The population has grown from four animals at Escobar’s Hacienda Nápoles estate to about 200 living in the wild. Scientists warn that, without intervention, the number could exceed 1,000 by 2035.
Efforts to control the population through relocation and sterilization have had limited success. These methods are costly, difficult to carry out and sometimes dangerous and finding suitable locations for relocation has proven challenging.
Following debate with animal rights groups, the government announced a plan to euthanize about 80 hippos while continuing relocation efforts where possible. Officials said some animals may be given lethal injections, while others could be shot if necessary.
Animal rights advocates oppose the plan and are calling for non-lethal alternatives. At the same time, the hippos have become a major tourist attraction, supporting the local economy. However, experts warn that as the population grows, the risk of dangerous encounters with humans is increasing.
Meanwhile, in Kazakhstan, the government addressed growing concerns over wildlife conditions after the deaths of 26,000 saiga antelopes, as well as swans and Caspian seals in the country’s western regions.
