In the 1980s, Pablo Escobar, the notorious Colombian drug kingpin, imported four hippopotamuses to his private zoo located at the Hacienda Napoles. Following his death in 1993, the hippos have multiplied substantially, and their current population is estimated to be around 200. This growing population poses significant environmental concerns, with Colombian authorities predicting that numbers could exceed 500 by 2030 if not controlled.

Veterinarian Carlos Valderama has noted that the hippos are adversely affecting local ecosystems. “They are increasing the sediment in lakes and lagoons, impacting a variety of aquatic species,” he stated. The Colombian government has initiated discussions with several countries to transfer some hippos to zoos or sanctuaries. However, these efforts have been met with obstacles, including genetic issues from inbreeding and a lack of willing host countries.

The response to the proposed euthanasia protocol has been fiercely divisive. Environment Minister Irene Velez supports euthanasia as a necessary step to manage the hippo population, stating that “without such measures, we face critical consequences for our ecosystems.”

On the other hand, many citizens and activists oppose this approach. Senator Andrea Padilla expressed disapproval, saying, “This is a legacy left to us by a drug trafficker; we can't close this chapter with violence against these animals.” There are unique offers as well, including a proposal from Anant Ambani, the son of an Indian billionaire, to house as many as 80 hippos in a private estate in India.

Local communities are also affected; residents from regions like Puerto Triunfo benefit economically from hippo tourism, which attracts visitors eager to see these large animals. Fisherman Wilinton Sánchez described the dangers posed by the hippos but acknowledged the appeal they create for tourists.

As this debate rages on in Colombia, the fate of these animals remains uncertain, mirroring the complexities of Escobar's enduring influence on the nation.