Story perspectives

Colombia to Euthanize Invasive Hippos Amid Ecological Threat

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Irene Vélez, Colombia's Environment Minister, announced the government will resort to euthanasia to control invasive hippos descended from Pablo Escobar's animals.
The hippos number about 160 now and could reach 500 by 2030, threatening local ecosystems.
Animal-rights groups have urged alternatives like sterilization, but the government has struggled to implement effective measures.
Past proposals included surgical sterilization and relocation, but no countries have accepted the hippos.

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Story summary

Irene Vélez, Colombia's Environment Minister, announced the government will resort to euthanasia to control invasive hippos descended from Pablo Escobar's animals.
The hippos number about 160 now and could reach 500 by 2030, threatening local ecosystems.
Animal-rights groups have urged alternatives like sterilization, but the government has struggled to implement effective measures.
Past proposals included surgical sterilization and relocation, but no countries have accepted the hippos.