Cabrera's hutia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cabrera's hutia |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Mesocapromys
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| Species: |
angelcabrerai
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The Cabrera's hutia (Mesocapromys angelcabrerai) is a small, rat-like mammal. It is found only in Cuba, an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. This animal is considered critically endangered. This means it is very close to disappearing forever from our planet.
Cabrera's hutias live in wet areas like swamps and coastal mangrove forests. They often share homes, living together in groups. Their biggest threat is the loss of their natural home, known as habitat loss.
About Cabrera's Hutia
Cabrera's hutia is a type of rodent. Rodents are mammals with front teeth that grow all the time. This group includes animals like rats, mice, and squirrels. The hutia belongs to a special group of rodents called the hutia subfamily (Capromyinae).
Where They Live
These unique animals make their homes in the wet, marshy lands of Cuba. They prefer areas with lots of water and special trees called mangroves. Mangrove forests are important because they provide shelter and food. Hutias often live together in shared shelters. This helps them stay safe and warm.
Why They Are Endangered
The main reason Cabrera's hutia is in danger is habitat loss. Their homes are being destroyed or changed by human activities. When swamps are drained or mangrove forests are cut down, these animals lose their food and shelter. This makes it very hard for them to survive and have babies. Many other hutia species from the Caribbean are also endangered or have already become extinct.
Name Origin
The scientific name for Cabrera's hutia is Mesocapromys angelcabrerai. The second part of its name, angelcabrerai, was chosen to honor a Spanish zoologist named Ángel Cabrera. A zoologist is a scientist who studies animals. This is a common way to name new species, recognizing the people who help discover or study them.
