Why are there wild hippopotamuses in Colombia because of Pablo Escobar?

The presence of wild hippopotamuses in Colombia is a direct consequence of Pablo Escobar's illegal activities. Escobar imported several hippos for his private zoo at his Hacienda Nápoles estate. After his death in 1993, most of the animals were relocated, but four hippos were left behind. These hippos have since multiplied, with their population growing to over 170 individuals by 2022. The growing population poses potential dangers to local farms and communities, leading authorities to implement population control measures, including castration and, as of 2026, plans for euthanasia.1