Mamals in Cuba NaturalezaNature didn't endow Cuba with mammals of great size like any other insular regions. The mammals that existed in Cuba since the arrival of the Spanish settlers has 38 species nowadays: 27 bats (Quiroptera), 10 hutias (Rodentia), and the Cuban Solenodon (Insectivorous). In some cases, their populations have declined in an alarming way. The Cuban Solenodon (Solenodon cubanus) is a jewel in Cuba's fauna and also is considered an alive fossil, at the moment just inhabit at the north of the eastern of Cuba in Alejandro Humbolt National Park. The hutias are the most characteristic mammals in Cuba. All are vegetarian; they feed of trees's bark , roots, tubers, fruits and leaves. The Cuban Hutia (Capromys Pilorides) is the most terrestrial; takes refuge in rocky floors hollows preferably, although it climbs to the trees to eat. The remaining species hide in holes of big and leafy trees. Bats constitute the most numerous group among the Cuban mammals. Their species are distributed thoroughly in the whole island of Cuba, where they form colonies in the caverns where they inhabit. As regards feeding, our bats are big specialists, each species consumes just a single food type that can consist on fruits, pollen, nectar, insects or fish. The Antillean Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) has been in frank decline due to his habit of living in waters drops located near the estuaries by what his capture is relatively easy. Another aspect that gravitates in its against it is the popular statement that their meat is exquisite and it possesses three different flavors. Conservation works carried out by the Cuban institutions make that this stout mammal has recovered their populations in some cayos at the north of Pinar del Rio, and in Ciénaga de Zapata. You can discover Cuba in your own way with the help of the Lonely Planet Guide Book. Rich in biodiversity, you will discover the vast and vibrant world of birds, all found in the Birds of Cuba, considered the best and most reliable book in its field. However, for the adrenaline junky, climbing in Cuba could give you a holiday of real excitement! Thanks to the copious amounts of locations and routes, all listed in the Cuba Climbing Guide Book. Cuban HutiaThe Cuban hutia is the largest native mammal occurring in Cuba. Endemic to the West Indies, most species of hutia are rare or extinct because of over-harvesting, exotic species introductions, and habitat modifications by humans.... more info. Cuban SolenodonThe Cuban Solenodon, known as the 'Almiqui' in Cuba, is a soricomorph endemic to Cuba. The Cuban Solenodon is unusual among mammals because it has a venomous saliva..... more info. Antillean manateeThe Antillean manatee also known as the sea cow, it is a large, gentle, grayish-brown mammal that spends its entire life in the water feeding on seagrass. The Antillean manatee is considered endangered because of its reduced numbers... more info. |
Cuba Naturaleza Biodiversity
Cuba Naturaleza Biodiversity