Toa river facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Toa River |
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| Country | Cuba |
| Province | Guantánamo |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 20°23′42″N 74°31′55″W / 20.39494°N 74.53191°W |
| Length | 131 km (81 mi) |
The Toa River is a beautiful river in Cuba. It flows through the Guantánamo Province, which is a part of Cuba. This amazing river is about 131 kilometers (or 81 miles) long! It's special because it has 72 smaller rivers and streams that flow into it. People love the Toa River for its super clear water.
The Toa River's Special Home
The area where all the water drains into the Toa River is called its watershed. This watershed is huge, covering about 1,061 square kilometers (410 square miles). Imagine a giant funnel where all the rain and smaller streams flow down into the main Toa River!
This river basin makes up about 70% of the Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve. A Biosphere Reserve is a special place recognized by UNESCO. It's set aside to protect nature while also helping people live and work there sustainably.
Amazing Plants and Animals
The land around the Toa River is a true natural treasure. It's home to many unique plants and animals that you won't find anywhere else. Scientists have found at least 1,000 different kinds of flowers here! There are also 145 types of ferns, which are ancient plants without flowers.
This area is also a safe haven for animals that are in danger of disappearing forever. One of these is the Cuban trogon, also known as the tocororo. This colorful bird is actually the national bird of Cuba! Another endangered bird living here is the hook-billed kite, a type of bird of prey. Protecting places like the Toa River helps these amazing creatures survive.
See also
In Spanish: Río Toa para niños
