Short Wave The Debate About Pablo Escobar's Hippos
Jan 14, 2022
Rasha Aridi, a science journalist and former intern, dives into the wild story of Pablo Escobar's hippos in Colombia. After Escobar's death, these hippos not only survived but thrived, creating a unique conservation conundrum. There's fierce debate on whether they should be controlled or embraced as ecological contributors. As locals weigh the benefits of ecotourism against possible dangers, discussions around invasive species and their roles in altered environments unfold, challenging our understanding of nature itself.
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Escobar's Hippos
- Pablo Escobar's estate housed a private zoo with various animals, including hippos.
- After his death, the hippos, deemed too difficult to move, were left and multiplied significantly.
Thriving Hippos
- The hippos, initially expected to die, thrived in the Colombian environment.
- Their population exploded from four to around 100, settling along the Magdalena River.
Environmental Concerns
- The hippos' presence negatively impacts water quality and depletes local fish populations.
- Gina Paola Serna, a wildlife veterinarian, expresses concerns about the hippos' environmental impact.