By Sakshi Sah
Published Sep 02, 2024

Hindustan Times

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

Pablo Escobar's 'Cocaine Hippos': 5 reasons why they're dangerous

Pablo Escobar was a notorious drug lord from Colombia, known for his massive cocaine trade.

Photo Credits: Oats Jenkins

In the 1980s, Escobar brought hippos to his private zoo, where they were part of his lavish collection of exotic animals.

Photo Credits: National Geographic

After Escobar's death in 1993, the hippos were left behind and began to roam freely, establishing a wild population in Colombia.

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

The hippo population in Colombia grew rapidly, estimating around 80 to 100 hippos.

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

The hippos have caused significant changes to the local ecosystem, impacting native wildlife and plant life.

Photo Credits: Oats Jenkins

Cocaine hippos carry diseases that may spread to other animals and potentially humans.

Photo Credits: Oats Jenkins

These hippos are highly territorial and aggressive, posing risks to humans and other wildlife.

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

The hippos are disrupting local ecosystems, affecting water sources and native plants and animals.

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

Their growth can lead to overpopulation issues, straining local resources and habitats.

Photo Credits: Hacienda Nápoles

Without natural predators, their population continues to grow unchecked, worsening the negative effects on the environment.

Photo Credits: National Geographic