Colombia's Battle Against Pablo Escobar's Cocaine Hippos

Colombia plans to control its population of over 100 hippos, descendants of animals brought to the country by Pablo Escobar, through surgical sterilization, deportation to other countries, and possibly euthanasia. The hippos, known as "cocaine hippos," have no natural predators in Colombia and are considered an invasive species that could disrupt the ecosystem. Authorities estimate there are 169 hippos in Colombia, with the potential for 1,000 by 2035 if no action is taken. The sterilization process is expensive and risky, and the government is also exploring the option of transferring hippos to other countries. As a last resort, a protocol for euthanasia is being developed. The hippos' presence has already impacted the local ecosystem and poses a danger to humans.