Puerto Rican hutia
Quick Summary
The Puerto Rican hutia (Isolobodon portoricensis) was a species of rodent native to the Caribbean, likely originating from Hispaniola and introduced to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. It is now extinct.1
Hutias, belonging to the family Capromyidae, are characterized by their short limbs, stout bodies, large heads, small eyes and ears, prominent claws, and long whiskers. They are adept climbers, primarily terrestrial, and den in tree nests, rock crevices, or caves. Their diet consists of roots, tubers, leaves, stems, and bark.1
Hunting by humans led to the extinction of various hutia species across islands. Habitat destruction also contributed to their decline. The Puerto Rican hutia is one of several hutia species that have become extinct, with others facing endangerment due to human population growth and habitat loss.1
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