Origin of the Pablo Escobar Hippos
After Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar died in 1993, his private zoo in Medellín was largely abandoned. Four hippopotamuses escaped or were released into the surrounding area. Over time, they reproduced rapidly in Colombia’s rivers and lakes, creating what is now known as the Pablo Escobar hippos problem.
Why the Hippos Are a Problem
The hippos have expanded their range, affecting local ecosystems and posing risks to communities. They can alter waterways, compete with native species, and cause dangerous encounters with people. Authorities have struggled to manage the growing population, which now numbers in the dozens.
Efforts to Control the Population
Colombian officials have used sterilization, relocation, and, in some cases, euthanasia to reduce numbers. Sterilization campaigns aim to slow reproduction, while some animals have been sent to zoos abroad. Despite these actions, controlling the Pablo Escobar hippos remains difficult and costly.
For more details on the history and impact of these animals, see the National Geographic overview of Colombia’s hippos.
