GTMO Banana Rats (Hutia)

Classification : Unclassified

Hutia:
(Alias Banana Rats)

Posted: 08/09/2006

Habitat

Capromys pilorides are widespread throughout all of Cuba. They are found in all types of habitats such as montane cloud forests, arid coastal semi-deserts, semi-deciduous forests, low, marshy areas and even in the mountains of eastern Cuba. Cuban hutias can possibly be divided into two groups: those that live in northern Cuba and those that live in southern Cuba. Those that live in the north tend to live in marshy areas where an abundance of red mangroves grow. This group generally lives in the branches and roots of the mangroves that grow there. However, those in the south tend to be more terrestrial. (Poiez et al. 1992, Phillips et al. 1991, Alvarez & Gonzalez 1991)

Physical Description

Cuban hutia can range anywhere from 20 to 60 cm in length (varying from individual to individual) and between 1 and 9 kg in weight. Capromys pilorides are the largest species of hutias. They are, on average, 60.96 cm long and7 kg in weight. Capromys pilorides have short, stocky legs which cause them to move in a "waddling" motion. However, in times when they need to move quickly (like while being chased) they are capable of hopping. Capromys pilorides have thick, coarse fur with the dorsal area generally a darker shade than the ventral side. The shades of fur can vary greatly from black and brown to yellowish shades or even reddish shades. The tail is completely covered with hair and is a solid shade of color. Capromys pilorides have large claws on their feet, which aid in climbing. Cuban hutias and their close relatives (C. garridoi and C. arboricolus) have a complex stomach divided into three compartments, this is the most complex stomach morphology found in rodents. Females have two lateral thoracic pairs of mammae. (Phillips et al. 1991, Nowak 1999, Alados et al. 1990)

Behavior

Capromys pilorides are generally shy and live mainly in groups of about two. Despite their secretive behavior, they are socia within their species. There are a few different types of social behavior that they engage in regularly. One of these types is scent marking. This is a common form of communication among hutias which provides a way of keeping track of their own kind. Scent marking is done by both males and females and is done through the use of urine. Another type of social behavior commonly found in Cuban hutias is a sort of grooming/wrestling. In a very non-aggressive sort of way, they often engage in a behavior that involves intermittent grooming sessions with tumbling around on each other. (Phillips et al. 1991)

Classification : Unclassified

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