Sierra Cristal National Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sierra Cristal National Park |
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IUCN Category II (National Park)
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Sierra de Cristal
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 Sierra Cristal National Park
Location in Cuba
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| Location | Holguín Province, Cuba |
| Nearest city | Mayarí |
| Area | 185.37 km2 (71.57 sq mi) |
| Established | 1930 |
Sierra Cristal National Park (which means Sierra Cristal National Park in Spanish) is a special protected area in Cuba. It is found in the southern part of Holguín Province, near the towns of Mayarí and Sagua de Tánamo. This park was the very first national park created in Cuba, back in 1930. It covers a large area of about 185 square kilometers (71 square miles).
Contents
Exploring Sierra Cristal National Park
This amazing park is located high up in the Sierra Cristal, also known as the Cristal Mountains. These mountains are one of the highest ranges in Cuba, second only to the famous Sierra Maestra. The tallest point in the park is Cristal Peak (Pico Cristal), which reaches an elevation of about 1,300 meters (4,265 feet). Imagine standing on top of that!
Plants and Animals of the Park
The mountains here are mostly covered by beautiful pine forests. The Cuban pine trees (Pinus cubensis) in this area can grow super tall, sometimes reaching heights of up to 30 meters (98 feet).
Meet the Cuban Solenodon
One very special and rare animal that lives in Sierra Cristal is the Cuban solenodon (Solenodon cubanus). This unique creature is an endangered mammal, meaning there are not many left in the world. It's a small, shrew-like animal with a long snout. Scientists work hard to protect these amazing animals.
Protecting the Environment
People care a lot about keeping Sierra Cristal National Park safe and healthy. A special research center was set up in 1988 in a place called Pinares de Mayarí. This center helps scientists study and watch over the plants and animals in the region. Their work makes sure the park's natural beauty and wildlife are protected for the future.
See also
In Spanish: Parque nacional Sierra Cristal para niños
