Colombia faces a unique ecological challenge: a thriving population of hippos, animals typically found in Africa, have established themselves in the country’s waterways. Often referred to as “cocaine hippos,” their presence stems from an unusual origin linked to a notorious figure from Colombia’s past.
How the Hippos Arrived in Colombia
The story of Colombia’s hippos begins with drug lord Pablo Escobar, who in the late 1970s, illegally imported four hippopotamuses to his lavish estate, Hacienda Nápoles, near Medellín. His private zoo housed various exotic animals. After Escobar’s death in 1993, the property was abandoned, and most animals were transferred or perished.
The hippos, however, were too difficult and dangerous to relocate, so they roamed freely. With no natural predators, ample food, and a favorable climate, the initial group of one male and three females reproduced. By 2007, their numbers grew to 16, and they ventured beyond Hacienda Nápoles into the Magdalena River basin, establishing a wild population.
The Environmental Impact
The unchecked growth of the hippo population has led to significant ecological consequences, as they are now considered an invasive species in Colombia. Their large size and habits alter aquatic ecosystems. Hippos spend much time in water, and their waste introduces substantial nutrients, like silicon, into lakes and rivers. This increased nutrient load can lead to eutrophication, fostering excessive cyanobacteria growth, which forms harmful algal blooms.
These large animals also impact the environment physically. Their trampling of vegetation contributes to soil erosion and alters the landscape, disrupting natural habitats. They can displace native species like the West Indian manatee, neotropical otter, and various turtles by competing for resources. There is also concern about hippos transmitting diseases to native wildlife and humans through water contamination from their fecal matter.
Managing the Growing Population
Addressing the expanding hippo population presents a multifaceted challenge, involving various strategies and considerable ethical debate.
Sterilization
One approach involves surgical sterilization, where individual hippos are captured and operated on to prevent further reproduction. This procedure is expensive, costing around $9,800 per animal, and carries risks for both the hippo and the veterinary team due to the animals’ size and aggressive nature. Chemical sterilization using immunocontraceptive vaccines is also being explored as a less invasive alternative.
Relocation
Relocation is another strategy, involving capturing hippos and transferring them to sanctuaries or zoos in other countries. In March 2023, Colombia announced plans to move 70 hippos, with 10 destined for a sanctuary in Mexico and 60 to an unnamed facility in India, an operation estimated to cost around $3.5 million. This process is complex, requiring careful planning and authorization from receiving countries to prevent new diseases.
Culling/Euthanasia
A more controversial option is culling, or controlled euthanasia, which ecologists often propose as the most effective way to manage the population. This method has faced strong opposition from animal rights activists and was halted in 2009 after public outrage over a hippo named Pepe being hunted. In 2023, the Colombian government announced a three-pronged strategy combining sterilization, transfer, and as a last resort, euthanasia.
The Future of Colombia’s Hippos
The challenge of managing Colombia’s hippo population continues to evolve, with no simple solution. Despite control efforts, the population is projected to grow, potentially reaching thousands within decades if unchecked. The ongoing debate reflects a conflict between ecological necessity and animal welfare concerns. Scientists advocate for effective population control to protect native ecosystems, while many locals and animal welfare groups desire to protect the hippos. This highlights the enduring legacy of an unintended introduction and the difficulties in finding a long-term resolution.