Jardines de la Reina National Park

Birds

While Jardines de la Reina is primarily a marine park, its mangrove islands and coastal habitats provide refuge for many bird species. These birds play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. Below are some of the most popular avian species found in the park.

Cuban Black Hawk
A coastal raptor, the Cuban black hawk is often seen soaring over mangroves and shorelines in search of crabs and small fish. This endemic bird is an important indicator of healthy coastal ecosystems.

Magnificent Frigatebird
With their large wingspan and striking red throat pouch, male frigatebirds put on impressive displays during breeding season. These birds are expert aerial pirates, often stealing food from other seabirds.

Brown Pelican
One of the most common seabirds in the region, the brown pelican is a skilled diver that plunges into the water to catch fish. These birds are social and often seen resting on mangrove branches.

White Ibis
Recognizable by their long, curved beaks and white plumage, white ibises forage in shallow waters for crustaceans and small fish. Their presence is a sign of a thriving wetland habitat.

Reddish Egret
A striking wading bird, the reddish egret is known for its energetic hunting style, running and spinning in the shallow water to catch fish. It is one of the rarer herons in the Caribbean.

Royal Tern
These elegant seabirds are often seen in large flocks along the coast. They dive into the water to catch fish and have a distinctive black crest during breeding season.

Osprey
A powerful bird of prey, the osprey is commonly found near the park’s waters, where it dives to snatch fish with its sharp talons. Its ability to hover and plunge into the sea makes it a fascinating sight.

Cuban Parrot
Though more often associated with Cuba’s forests, the Cuban parrot can sometimes be found in the coastal areas of the park, where it feeds on fruits and seeds. Its bright green feathers and red throat make it easy to spot.

Greater Flamingo
The vibrant pink greater flamingo is a spectacular sight in the park’s lagoons and shallow waters. These social birds feed on tiny crustaceans and algae, which give them their distinctive coloration.

Black Skimmer
Known for its unique bill, which is longer on the lower half, the black skimmer glides low over the water’s surface, using its beak to catch fish. It is often seen in groups along sandy shores.

Jardines de la Reina National Park, located off the southern coast of Cuba, is a pristine marine reserve teeming with diverse and abundant wildlife. This protected area is one of the most well-preserved ecosystems in the Caribbean, offering a sanctuary for numerous marine species, including sharks, sea turtles, and various types of fish. Below are some of the most popular species found in this stunning marine park.

Caribbean Reef Shark
A dominant predator in the park’s waters, the Caribbean reef shark plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. These sleek, gray sharks can grow up to 10 feet long and are commonly seen patrolling the coral reefs.

Silky Shark
Named for its smooth skin, the silky shark is a fast-moving species often found in deeper waters. These sharks are known for their curiosity and are frequently spotted by divers near drop-offs and open water zones.

Goliath Grouper
One of the largest bony fish in the Caribbean, the goliath grouper can grow over 8 feet long and weigh up to 800 pounds. These slow-moving giants are often seen resting near coral formations and are known for their deep, rumbling vocalizations.

Green Sea Turtle
One of the most iconic marine reptiles in the park, the green sea turtle nests along the park’s beaches and can often be spotted grazing on seagrass beds. Their conservation is a priority in the park, as they face threats from poaching and habitat destruction.

Hawksbill Turtle
Recognized for its striking shell patterns, the hawksbill turtle is a critically endangered species that relies on the park’s coral reefs for food and shelter. These turtles help maintain healthy coral ecosystems by feeding on sponges that compete with corals.

Nassau Grouper
A crucial species for the health of the reef, the Nassau grouper is a medium-sized fish that relies on protected areas like Jardines de la Reina to thrive. This species is known for its seasonal spawning aggregations, which make it vulnerable to overfishing.

Queen Conch
A large marine mollusk, the queen conch is valued for its beautiful pink shell and plays a key role in seagrass bed ecosystems. Overharvesting has threatened this species, making its protection within the park essential.

American Crocodile
These impressive reptiles inhabit the mangroves and coastal lagoons of the park. Unlike their more aggressive relatives, American crocodiles are relatively shy and prefer brackish waters, where they feed on fish and small mammals.

Spotted Eagle Ray
Easily recognized by its dark body covered in white spots, the spotted eagle ray glides gracefully through the park’s waters. These rays have long, whip-like tails and often leap out of the water when disturbed.

Great Barracuda
A top predator of the reef, the great barracuda is a sleek, silver fish with a powerful bite. These fast swimmers are known for their sharp teeth and their ability to ambush prey with sudden bursts of speed.