Guanahacabibes National Park

Birds

Guanahacabibes National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a diverse avian population that includes both resident and migratory species. The park’s forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats provide refuge for numerous spectacular birds.

Cuban Trogon
As Cuba’s national bird, the Cuban trogon is a striking species with vibrant red, blue, and white plumage, resembling the colors of the Cuban flag. It inhabits forests and feeds primarily on fruits and insects.

Bee Hummingbird
The world’s smallest bird, the bee hummingbird is only about 2 inches long and weighs less than a dime. Males display brilliant iridescent feathers and are often seen darting between flowers in search of nectar.

Cuban Pygmy Owl
This tiny owl is a fierce predator despite its small size. Found in forested areas, it is active during both day and night and preys on insects, small birds, and lizards.

Cuban Green Woodpecker
Recognized by its bright green body and red cap, this woodpecker is commonly seen in wooded areas of the park. It uses its strong beak to excavate tree trunks in search of insects.

Fernandina’s Flicker
One of Cuba’s rarest woodpeckers, Fernandina’s flicker has striking yellow and black plumage. It primarily inhabits palm groves and is considered a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss.

Cuban Black Hawk
A formidable bird of prey, the Cuban black hawk is often seen soaring over the coastal regions of the park. It preys on small mammals, reptiles, and fish and is well-adapted to mangrove environments.

Western Spindalis
A beautifully colored songbird, the Western spindalis features a mix of bright orange, black, and white plumage. It is commonly found foraging in trees for fruits and insects.

Great Lizard Cuckoo
This large and agile bird is named for its ability to chase down lizards, one of its primary food sources. It has a long tail and is known for its loud, cackling calls that echo through the forest.

Roseate Spoonbill
A striking wading bird, the roseate spoonbill has bright pink plumage and a distinctively shaped bill. It feeds by sweeping its bill through shallow water to catch small fish and crustaceans.

Osprey
A migratory raptor that frequents the coastal areas of Guanahacabibes, the osprey is an expert fisherman. It can often be seen hovering over the water before diving to catch fish with its sharp talons.

Guanahacabibes National Park is a haven for wildlife and bird species, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and conservationists alike.

Popular

Guanahacabibes National Park, located on the westernmost tip of Cuba, is a pristine natural reserve known for its rich biodiversity. This park is home to diverse wildlife, including unique mammals, reptiles, and marine species, many of which thrive in its coastal ecosystems and lush forests.

Cuban Hutia
The largest native land mammal in Cuba, the Cuban hutia is a rodent species that resembles a large guinea pig. These herbivorous creatures are excellent climbers and often forage for fruits, leaves, and bark.

West Indian Manatee
This gentle marine mammal can be found in the park’s coastal waters and mangrove areas. The West Indian manatee is a slow-moving herbivore that relies on seagrass beds for sustenance and is considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss.

Green Sea Turtle
One of the most frequently seen sea turtles in the park, the green sea turtle nests along the beaches of Guanahacabibes. These turtles are known for their long migrations and herbivorous diet, feeding primarily on seagrasses and algae.

Hawksbill Turtle
Another iconic sea turtle species, the hawksbill turtle plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem by maintaining healthy coral reefs. It has a distinctive shell with overlapping scales and primarily feeds on sponges.

American Crocodile
This powerful reptile inhabits the coastal lagoons and mangrove swamps of Guanahacabibes. Unlike its more aggressive relatives, the American crocodile is relatively shy and prefers brackish waters where it hunts fish, birds, and small mammals.

Cuban Boa
One of the largest snakes in Cuba, the Cuban boa is a non-venomous constrictor that helps control rodent populations. This impressive reptile is often found in forests, caves, and rocky outcrops within the park.

Bottlenose Dolphin
A common marine species in the waters surrounding Guanahacabibes, the bottlenose dolphin is highly intelligent and social. These dolphins communicate through whistles and clicks and are often seen leaping and playing in the waves.

Spiny Lobster
A key species in the marine ecosystem, the spiny lobster is commonly found in the coral reefs and rocky seabeds of the park. It is an important species for local fisheries and plays a vital role in the food chain.

Cuban Rock Iguana
This large, herbivorous lizard is endemic to Cuba and thrives in the rocky coastal areas of the park. The Cuban rock iguana has a robust body, spiky tail, and strong limbs, which help it navigate its rugged habitat.

Caribbean Reef Shark
A frequent visitor to the coral reefs of Guanahacabibes, the Caribbean reef shark is a sleek and powerful predator. It plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem by controlling fish populations.

Birds

Guanahacabibes National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a diverse avian population that includes both resident and migratory species. The park’s forests, wetlands, and coastal habitats provide refuge for numerous spectacular birds.

Cuban Trogon
As Cuba’s national bird, the Cuban trogon is a striking species with vibrant red, blue, and white plumage, resembling the colors of the Cuban flag. It inhabits forests and feeds primarily on fruits and insects.

Bee Hummingbird
The world’s smallest bird, the bee hummingbird is only about 2 inches long and weighs less than a dime. Males display brilliant iridescent feathers and are often seen darting between flowers in search of nectar.

Cuban Pygmy Owl
This tiny owl is a fierce predator despite its small size. Found in forested areas, it is active during both day and night and preys on insects, small birds, and lizards.

Cuban Green Woodpecker
Recognized by its bright green body and red cap, this woodpecker is commonly seen in wooded areas of the park. It uses its strong beak to excavate tree trunks in search of insects.

Fernandina’s Flicker
One of Cuba’s rarest woodpeckers, Fernandina’s flicker has striking yellow and black plumage. It primarily inhabits palm groves and is considered a species of conservation concern due to habitat loss.

Cuban Black Hawk
A formidable bird of prey, the Cuban black hawk is often seen soaring over the coastal regions of the park. It preys on small mammals, reptiles, and fish and is well-adapted to mangrove environments.

Western Spindalis
A beautifully colored songbird, the Western spindalis features a mix of bright orange, black, and white plumage. It is commonly found foraging in trees for fruits and insects.

Great Lizard Cuckoo
This large and agile bird is named for its ability to chase down lizards, one of its primary food sources. It has a long tail and is known for its loud, cackling calls that echo through the forest.

Roseate Spoonbill
A striking wading bird, the roseate spoonbill has bright pink plumage and a distinctively shaped bill. It feeds by sweeping its bill through shallow water to catch small fish and crustaceans.

Osprey
A migratory raptor that frequents the coastal areas of Guanahacabibes, the osprey is an expert fisherman. It can often be seen hovering over the water before diving to catch fish with its sharp talons.

Guanahacabibes National Park is a haven for wildlife and bird species, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and conservationists alike.