Tertius News is an AI-native newsroom: an AI model reads the linked source articles below and extracts what each outlet reported, so you can compare their coverage side by side. How this works →

Colombia approves cull of up to 80 hippos

Colombian officials have approved a plan to cull up to 80 hippos, descendants of animals brought by Pablo Escobar in the 1980s, citing threats to villagers and native species. The decision follows unsuccessful sterilization and relocation efforts. Animal welfare activists, including Senator Andrea Padilla, have condemned the move as cruel.

By Tertius News AI Desk 6 outlets · 7 articles Version 1 Coverage Apr 13–14, 2026 Published Aug 13

Coverage Comparison

Colombian authorities have authorized a plan to cull up to 80 hippos roaming freely in central Colombia, a decision confirmed by multiple international news outlets. The animals are descendants of four hippos imported in the 1980s by the late drug lord Pablo Escobar for his private zoo at Hacienda Nápoles. The cull, announced by Environment Minister Irene Vélez on Monday, is intended to address what scientists describe as a growing threat to local communities and ecosystems.

The story was widely covered by international media, including ABC Australia, Africa News, Al Jazeera, Deutsche Welle, The Guardian, and TASS. While all reports agree on the core facts, there are minor discrepancies in details. Most sources state the hippos were introduced in the 1980s, while Al Jazeera's report says the 1990s—a variation that likely stems from rounding or contextual framing. Additionally, Deutsche Welle and The Guardian mention that the environment ministry projected the population could reach around 1,000 by 2035 without intervention, while Africa News cites a projection of 500 by 2030. These figures are not necessarily contradictory, as they may reflect different models or timeframes.

TASS, citing CBS News, adds that transport to Africa was considered but deemed too expensive, costing roughly $3.5 million per animal—a detail not highlighted in other reports but consistent with prior coverage of the controversy.

Key Claims

Cull of up to 80 hippos: All sources confirm that the Colombian government approved a plan to cull up to 80 hippos. The measure was announced by Environment Minister Irene Vélez, who did not specify a timeline for implementation.

Escobar's legacy: The hippos are descendants of four animals illegally imported by Pablo Escobar in the 1980s (with one source saying 1990s). After Escobar's death in 1993, the hippos multiplied unchecked, and a 2022 study by Colombia's National University estimated about 170 were roaming freely.

Environmental and safety threats: The hippos threaten villagers and compete with native species such as river manatees, according to environmental authorities. They also disrupt fragile habitats, as reported by all outlets.

Failed control measures: Previous attempts to control the population, including sterilization and relocation to zoos, were costly and ineffective, according to officials.

Tourist attraction: Despite the dangers, the hippos have become a tourist draw, with locals offering hippo-spotting tours and selling souvenirs at Hacienda Nápoles, now a theme park.

Animal welfare opposition: Animal welfare activists oppose the cull. Senator Andrea Padilla, an animal rights advocate, described the plan as "cruel," a sentiment echoed by groups who argue that killing sets a poor example for a country with a history of internal conflict.

Population projections: The Environment Ministry projected that without intervention, the hippo population could rise to around 1,000 by 2035, according to Deutsche Welle and The Guardian. Africa News reported a separate projection of 500 by 2030.

Budget: The cull program has a budget of 7.2 billion pesos (approximately €1.68 million), as reported by Deutsche Welle.

Perspectives

Government and scientific perspective

Authorities argue that culling is necessary to protect ecosystems and native species. Environment Minister Irene Vélez stated, "We have to take this action to preserve our ecosystems," emphasizing that previous methods had failed. Scientists support the move, noting that hippos, with no natural predators, have multiplied rapidly and now threaten villagers and biodiversity.

Animal welfare perspective

Animal rights activists and Senator Andrea Padilla oppose the cull, calling it "cruel." They argue that killing the hippos sets a poor example and that alternative solutions, such as better management or contraception, should be explored. Padilla, who helped draft legislation banning bullfights, accused officials of choosing the "easy way out."

Economic and local perspective

The hippos have become an economic asset for communities near Hacienda Nápoles, where tourism has flourished around hippo-spotting tours and souvenirs. This local economic dependency adds complexity to the cull decision, as some residents may resist measures that could harm tourism.

Historical context

The hippos are a direct legacy of Pablo Escobar's criminal empire. Their presence in Colombia is a reminder of the country's troubled past, but also of its unique biodiversity challenges. Colombia is the only country outside Africa with a wild hippo population, a distinction that has puzzled scientists and policymakers for years.

As the government moves forward, the world will be watching how Colombia balances ecological preservation with ethical treatment of animals—and how it addresses the unintended consequences of Escobar's bizarre introduction of African megafauna to South America.