The Cuban solenodon, aka almiquí, is a furry, shrew-like mammal, and the only species in the genus Atopogale. This makes it a monotypic species. They face the threats of habitat loss and destruction at the hands of logging, wood collecting, and mining; and invasive species, that can bring about predation and disease. These critters are listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Their population trend it listed as decreasing.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Atopogale cubana
Weight: Up to 1.8 lbs.
Length: Up to 15 inches, plus up to a 10 inch tail
Lifespan: Up to 11 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) They were first discovered by the German naturalist Wilhelm Peters in 1861.
2.) By 1970, many thought these solenodons had become extinct, seeing as no specimens had been found since 1890.
3.) 1 was discovered in 2003 and was named Alejandrito. After 2 days of scientific study were completed, Alejandrito was released back into the wild.
4.) While not extinct, they are among the rarest animals on earth.
5.) These critters are nocturnal (active at night).
But wait, there’s more on the Cuban solenodon!
6.) They are preyed on by black rats, feral cats, feral dogs, and small Indian mongooses.
7.) Females produce just 1 litter consisting of up to 3 pups each year.
Did you know…?
Due to the venom from modified salivary glands in their lower jaw, they have the capacity to kill lizards, frogs, small birds, and even rodents.
8.) The gestation period (pregnancy length) is estimated at less than 50 days.
9.) They prefer to dwell in mountainous forests in the Nipe-Sagua-Baracoa mountain range of eastern Cuba, in the provinces of Holguín, Guantánamo, and also in Santiago de Cuba
10.) Insects, other invertebrates, roots, fungi, fruits, berries, and buds are all feasted upon.
Now a Short Cuban Solenodon Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
Photo credit: Fandom
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