health
This is how the protocol for the control hunting of hippos in Magdalena Medio will be
The Ministry of Environment presented this Monday the euthanasia protocol for common hippopotamus specimens (Hippopotamus amphibius) as a control hunting measure due to their accelerated expansion in Antioquia and three other departments.
TL;DR
- The Ministry of Environment has presented a euthanasia protocol for common hippos (*Hippopotamus amphibius*) as a control hunting measure.
- This protocol addresses the ecological and social crisis caused by hippo overpopulation in the Magdalena Medio region and three other departments.
- The process involves three key activities: baiting and capture, euthanasia, and final carcass disposal.
- Euthanasia is defined as a humane and painless induced death, overseen by experienced wildlife veterinarians.
- The protocol includes remote immobilization via dart rifles and chemical sedation before inducing death.
- Alternatively, physical euthanasia using firearms is recommended if chemical methods are not feasible, targeting the animal's brain.
- A necropsy must be performed within 24 hours to gather health information and document the cause of death.
- Disposal methods include sanitary burial in deep pits or incineration at high temperatures.
- Strict biosecurity and personal protective equipment measures are required due to the biological risks associated with handling hippo carcasses.