Cuban Animals - Dengue FeverAnimals in CubaThere are over seven thousand different types of insects, five hundred different types of fish, and three hundred different types of fish in and around Cuba. That is quite a large and diverse number for such a small island! 
Dangerous Animals in CubaAs whole, the island is considered to be free of dangerous fauna. However, there are two different species that could potentially cause a threat to a human. While the threat is relatively minor, one should be aware that it does exist. Cuban CrocodileAmong the Cuban animals the Cuban Crocodile is an endangered species that lives in the swamplands of the island. When it comes to this type of reptile, the Cuban Crocodile has a relatively small range, preferring to stay in the swamps. The creatures can reach up to ten feet in length and prefer a diet of fish, turtles and other water dwelling creatures. Generally, the crocodile does stay in the swamps, but it is well adapted to land and could pose a threat to a human who threatens it.
Wildlife in Cuba - Cuban CrocodileMosquito bites in Cuba: the Aedes MosquitoThe second animal danger in Cuba comes from a tiny insectthe mosquito. As well known, the small, buzzing bug can carry a number of different human infections. The most common disease born by mosquitoes on the island is Dengue Fever. What is Dengue Fever? This illness causes flu like symptoms that could lead to greater problems, including bleeding, and in severe cases, death. People in Cuba are urged to take steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes, using repellents, mosquito nets, and protective clothing. (4) Mammals in CubaThe Prehensile Tail Hutia is a small rodent creature that is able to use its partially prehensile tail to climb trees within the tropical forests of western Cuba. This rodent is endemic to the island, meaning it cannot be found elsewhere, and is considered endangered. The animal is no threat to humans, existing off a diet strictly of fruits and vegetation.(1) A species of shrew, the Cuban Solenodon was once considered extinct, yet has recently been found to be alive by seriously endangered. This tiny animal lives off the insects that can be found within the thick undergrowth of the forest floor. The Cuban Solenodon is a nocturnal creature.(2) While not indigenous to the island, the Indian Mongoose is found in a decent sized population in Cuba. These small Cuban animals were introduced to the island by humans to help control the population of nuisance rodents. The mongoose feeds on many small creatures, including snakes. (3) Bats in CubaCuba is home to a few different species of bats, including the Bulldog Bat, the Pallid Bat, the Cuban Fruit Eating Bat, and the Funnel Eared Bat. These nocturnal flying creatures feed off fruits, vegetation, and insects. They do not pose a threat to humans or other animals. Huge colonies of bats can be found inside the Caverna de Santo Tomás (Saint Thomas Caves) in the Pinar del Rio province, the most extensive cave sytem in Cuba.The bats became one of the most famous Cuban animals as the logo on the Bacardi rum bottles.
Cuban Animals: The TarantulaThere are thousands of different insects on the island of Cuba, and most of them are harmless to humans. One such insect that may seem quite frightening but is not dangerous is the Tarantula. There has been research done indicating that there are over twenty-one different species of Tarantulas indigenous to Cuba alone. These large, hairy, and frightening looking spiders do not pose a threat to humans. The spiders tend to prefer the tropical trees as their home and prefer a diet of insects. The tarantulas tend to stay in the forests, but can occasionally be found in human habitats, which can seem frightening to tourists, but are not dangerous.
Cuban LizardsLizards are a group of reptiles and typical have limbs, external ears and moveable eyelids. Many lizards can detach their tail to escape from their attackers.A special specimen is the Cuban Night Lizard living in the eastern Cuban coast areas, Guardalavaca, Holguin, Banes and Guantanamo. More about Cuban night lizards and Cuban anoles and Chameleons. Cuban Animals: Cuban Knight Anoles
Cuban Sea LifeCuba and the waters that surround it are a favored place for snorkeling excursions because it is home to such a prolific and unique set of water dwelling species. There are many different types of tropical fish that make their homes in the Caribbean waters around the island. Some of the fish that a person would expect to see include the Puffer Fish, the Pig Fish, the Trigger Fish, the Bat Fish, and a variety of species of Gar. The waters around Cuba are also home to a wide variety of different species of dolphin, meaning that this favored animal of tourists is often seen in large groups around the island. Some of the dolphin species include Climene, Striped, Fraser’s, Risso, and Spinner Dolphins.(5)
(1) Prehensile Tail Hutia information from the University of Michigan.
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