Colombia orders culling of up to 80 invasive hippos to protect wildlife and people

Colombia's government announced plans to kill up to 80 invasive hippopotamuses that have threatened local communities and wildlife for years. The hippos, descended from animals that escaped a private zoo decades ago, have multiplied into a significant ecological and public safety problem in the country. The culling represents a major intervention in one of South America's most challenging invasive species crises. The decision follows years of failed alternative management strategies, including contraception and relocation attempts.