ANIMALS AND BIRDS
1.Cuban Amazon Parrot
The cotorra, or Cuban amazon parrot, an inhabitant of dry forests, was once found throughout Cuba. Now threatened, it is most easily seen in the Zapata swamps, on Isla de la Juventud, and in Parque Nacional Alejandro Humboldt. It performs noisy mating displays during the onset of the wet season.
Cuban amazon parrot
2.Cuban Crocodile
Up to 16 ft (5 m) in length, the Cuban crocodile is endemic to the island and is far more aggressive than its cousin, the American crocodile, which is also found here. Despite being hunted to near extinction, the population has recovered thanks to a breeding program introduced by Fidel Castro.
3.Iguana
Resembling a small dragon, this leathery reptile inhabits offshore cays and feasts on leaves, fruit, and, occasionally, insects. It basks in the sun to become active, but seeks refuge from the mid-afternoon heat in cool burrows.
Iguana
4.Solenodon
You are unlikely to see one of these long-nosed, ant-eating mammals in the wild, as they are shy and nocturnal. Resembling a giant shrew, the solenodon is an endangered species, as it is easy prey for dogs and mongooses.
5.Tocororo
This pigeon-sized, forest-dwelling bird is a member of the trogon family. The tocororo is Cuba’s national bird because its blue, white, and red plumage corresponds to the colors of the nation’s flag. It has a serrated bill, concave-tipped tail, and is common throughout the island.
6.Flamingo
With legs that resemble carnation stalks this pink bird is the most attractive of Cuba’s many estuary birds. Large flocks of flamingos inhabit the saltwater lagoons of Zapata. They primarily eat insect larvae, which contain a substance that gives them their bright color.
7.Polymita
These snails are remarkable for their colorful shells, whorled in patterns that are unique to each individual. The shells of these multicolored mollusks can range from simple black-and-white spirals to blazing stripes of orange, yellow, and maroon. Unfortunately, Cuba’s polymita population has been undergoing a decline.
Polymita
8.Zunzuncito
The tiny Cuban hummingbird is so small, it is often mistaken for a bee; earning it the nickname “bee hummer.” In fact, at only one inch (2.5 cm) long, it is the world’s smallest bird. Nonetheless, this feisty bird defends its territory aggressively and has even been seen attacking vultures.
9.Jutía
A shy arboreal rat, the endemic jutía looks like an overgrown guinea pig. This rabbit-sized herbivore is endangered by deforestation, illegal hunting, and predators. It inhabits many of the wilderness regions of Cuba, but is most likely to be seen in captivity. Many Cubans breed jutías for food.
A jutía, or tree rat
10.Jabalí
The Cuban wild boar is known for its highly aggressive nature when threatened. Covered in thick bristles, it is common to lowland wilderness areas. The jabalí is hunted for sport – its meat is a local delicacy.
TOP 10 CUBAN TREES AND FLOWERS
1.Royal Palm
Cuba’s silver-sheathed national tree is a beautiful palm with feather-like fronds.
2.Mangrove
Five species of mangroves grow along Cuba’s shores, rising from the waters on a tangle of interlocking stilts.
Mangroves
3.Ceiba
This tree, with a huge limbless trunk topped by wide-spreading boughs, is attributed with magical-religious powers by believers of Santería.
4.Jagüey
Seeding atop host trees, this species drops roots to the ground and envelopes and chokes its host.
5.Sea Grape
This hardy shrub grows along shores and features broad, circular leaves and bunches of grape-like fruit.
6.Orchid
Hundreds of orchid species grow in Cuba from the plains to the mountains.
7.Creolean Pine
Native to the Caribbean, this species is found above about 5,000 ft (1,524 m).
8.Bougainvillea
Brightening many towns, the spectacular pink, purple, and bright red “flowers” of this shrub are, in fact, leaves surrounding tiny petals.
9.Flamboyán
Flowering flame-red, this wide-spreading tree emblazons the country in spring and summer.
10.Cork Palm
The endangered cork palm grows only in remote areas of the Cordillera de Guaniguanico (for further details see Cork Palm).
