Dwarf hutia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dwarf hutia |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Mesocapromys
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| Species: |
nana
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| Synonyms | |
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The dwarf hutia (Mesocapromys nana) is a very small mammal. It looks a bit like a rat or a guinea pig. This animal is only found in Cuba. It is also critically endangered, which means it is in great danger of disappearing forever.
Scientists last saw a dwarf hutia in 1937. They have only found its tracks since then. It might even be extinct, meaning there are no more left alive. This little animal usually gives birth to only one baby at a time. Its biggest threats are losing its home and new animals like rats and mongooses. The dwarf hutia belongs to a group of rodents called hutias. Most hutias from the Caribbean are also endangered or have already become extinct.
What it Looks Like
Hutias are rodents that are built quite strong. They look a bit like guinea pigs. They have wide, round heads. Their eyes are fairly small, and their ears are short and round. We do not know the average size of the dwarf hutia's body or tail.
Some types of hutias have tails that can grip things. This means they can use their tails to hold onto branches or climb. Unlike many other rodents that have many babies, the dwarf hutia only has one baby at a time.
Why it Needs Help
The dwarf hutia is now Critically Endangered. This happened because its home was destroyed. Also, new animals like mongooses and black rats were brought to Cuba. These new animals hunt the hutias or compete for their food.
There is still hope for the dwarf hutia. Scientists found tracks and droppings in the Zapata Swamp. This makes them think the species might still be alive. At first, people only knew about the dwarf hutia from old bones. But later, they found out it was still living.
See also
In Spanish: Jutía enana para niños
