Colombia Takes Measures to Control the Population of Pablo Escobars Cocaine Hippos – Shiv Telegram Media
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Colombia Struggles to Tackle Escobar’s Legacy: Over 100 Hippos Threaten Ecosystem and Human Safety
Colombia is grappling with a unique problem as it deals with a burgeoning hippo population of over 100, descendants of the animals brought to the country by notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar in the 1980s. These hippos, originally imported for Escobar’s private zoo, have now become an invasive species with no natural predators in the country.
In an effort to control the hippo population, the Colombian government has devised a plan that involves surgical sterilization, the transfer of hippos to other countries, and potentially euthanasia. If no measures are taken, authorities estimate that the number of hippos in Colombia could soar to 1,000 by 2035.
However, the surgical sterilization process comes with its own set of challenges. Not only is it an expensive procedure, costing around $9,800 per hippo, but it also poses risks for both the animals and the animal health personnel. Therefore, experts believe that sterilization alone will not be sufficient to control the growth of this invasive species.
As a result, the government is exploring the option of transferring the hippos to other countries, which could incur costs of approximately $3.5 million. Colombian officials have reached out to authorities in Mexico, India, and the Philippines, with plans to send 60 hippos to India in the hope of alleviating the population issue.
Unfortunately, euthanasia is being considered as a last resort to control the growing hippo population. Colombian officials are currently developing a protocol for this measure, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The presence of these hippos in Colombia has already had a significant impact on the local ecosystem. Changes in river composition and threats to vulnerable species such as manatees, otters, turtles, and fish have been observed. Additionally, these large animals pose a direct danger to humans, with numerous reports of interactions and attacks.
The potential for fatal encounters in the future is a major concern if the hippo population is not effectively controlled. It is imperative for the Colombian government to implement sustainable and efficient measures to address this issue and prevent any further ecological and human safety risks.
As the nation grapples with Escobar’s legacy, the focus now lies on finding a comprehensive solution to manage the growing hippo population and regain balance in the Colombian ecosystem.
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