Anant Ambani, son of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani, has revived his offer to transport 80 of Pablo Escobar’s descendant hippos from Colombia to his private zoo in India. The animals, originally imported by the notorious drug kingpin for his personal entertainment, have multiplied significantly since his death in 1993, creating an unusual and complex ecological problem for the South American country.
The hippos, native to sub-Saharan Africa, were left to roam free after Escobar’s demise. Without natural predators in Colombia, their population has boomed, with estimates ranging from 160 to over 200. This rapid growth has raised concerns among Colombian authorities and environmentalists about the impact on native ecosystems, including potential displacement of local wildlife, disruption of waterways, and even risks to human safety.
Ambani’s offer, which includes covering the significant costs of capture and transportation, presents a potential solution to Colombia’s dilemma. His Vantara zoo, located in Gujarat, India, is described as a vast rescue and rehabilitation centre, aiming to provide a safe haven for rescued animals from around the world. The facility, which opened earlier this year, boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and extensive veterinary care, suggesting it has the capacity to accommodate such a large group of large mammals.
The logistical challenge of moving 80 hippos across continents is immense, requiring meticulous planning for capture, veterinary checks, and specialised transport. While the UK Government has not commented directly on this specific case, it often provides support and guidance on international wildlife conservation efforts, particularly concerning invasive species and ethical animal welfare standards. Such a complex relocation project would undoubtedly draw international attention from conservation groups and animal welfare organisations.