80 wild hippos linked to Pablo Escobar will be ‘culled’ despite outcry

Colombia faces a controversial decision regarding its invasive hippopotamus population, descendants of Pablo Escobar's private zoo animals. With approximately 80 hippos now roaming freely in Colombian wetlands, authorities plan a culling program to control the ecological impact. This unique situation represents the only wild hippo population outside Africa, creating complex environmental and ethical challenges. Wildlife officials argue that population control is necessary to prevent further ecosystem damage, while animal rights advocates oppose the culling strategy, seeking alternative management solutions.