Mapping Biodiversity in Cuba

This project has been amended to incorporate several health and safety measures to allow responsible fielding of teams during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please refer to the COVID Disclosure Form for more details. 

BEFORE FIELDING 

• Vaccination against COVID-19 is required for all participants. Staying up to date with your vaccinations, including receiving booster doses if available, is strongly encouraged. 
• Become familiar with and abide by the local COVID requirements up to date vaccinations, including boosters, mandatory quarantine, or other guidelines. 
• Do not travel to your Earthwatch expedition or program if you: 
  • are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell), 
  • are confirmed or suspected as having COVID-19 within the past 10 days
  • have been in close contact with someone suspected or confirmed as having COVID-19 in the past 10 days 
• You are highly encouraged to take a COVID-19 test one day before or the morning of your rendezvous, before meeting up with your team.

WHILE IN THE FIELD 

• Face masks will be required in line with local regulations and/or when instructed by project leadership. In areas or on projects where mask use is no longer required, the use of face masks will be optional. Any individual who wishes to continue to mask will be supported in that decision. 
• Participants and project staff will continue to wash or sanitize hands frequently and maintain physical distance whenever possible. 
• All team members will be asked to monitor their own health through daily health checks. 
• Recreational activities may be limited or require additional face mask requirements to reduce the risk of exposure to team members or to the local community.
• Meals and activities will take place outside whenever possible. 
• Ventilation will be increased indoors and within enclosed vehicles whenever possible.

Despite Cuba’s importance as a biodiversity hotspot, long-term political complexities with the U.S. and other nations stymied collaborative international research. This is a critical moment in history for this island nation, with the potential for significant economic development around the corner and the unique opportunity to help protect this island’s outstanding biodiversity (Boom 2011; Davalos 2004; Fritsch and McDowell 2003; Iturralde-Vinent and MacPhee 1999; Savage 1991).

The mountainous forests of Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER) are home to species only found in the Caribbean—including the vulnerable Cuban Parakeet and the near threatened Cuban Amazon Parrot (Garrido et al. 2011; González et al. 2014; Cañizares-Morera et al. 2005; Cañizares-Morera and Berovides 2008). This region faces many conservation challenges, including habitat transformation in neighboring agricultural lands, illegal extraction of flora and fauna from protected areas (Muñoz 2014), and the impacts of climate change. 

There is a great need to strengthen the management of LBER to better protect its biodiversity, better understand conservation threats, and integrate rural communities into natural resource protection schemes. By intensive monitoring of biodiversity with the help of citizen scientists, specifically birds, trees, and bat species that are indicators of habitat quality, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of the overall ecosystem during a pivotal moment for Cuba.

Researchers seek to merge scientific research, ecological teaching, and community outreach with the goal of establishing a mid to long-term research and monitoring program in LBER to generate data and information critical to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable management of the Banao River Basin. 

With the support of Earthwatch volunteers in 2018 and 2019, researchers finalized baseline assessments of vegetation (including vegetation structure and composition), birds, amphibians, and reptiles in an altitudinal gradient and across seasons. Through these efforts, it became evident that significant differences in bird community composition were influenced by seasonality (migratory vs non-migratory (breeding) periods), vegetation structure, and altitude. Scientists determined that to maintain and improve the integrity of habitats within the forest, we need to increase efforts in the research and conservation of primary pollinators and seed dispersers – focusing on birds and bats. Little is known about bats at LBER, but most bat species in Cuba show a high degree of ecological specialization, which makes them sensitive to local extinctions.

The overarching research question focuses on the extent of changes in species composition and abundances of indicator taxa through time and space at the LBER, and the linkages between these potential changes and increasing human impact in this area of Cuba.

In alignment with this question, the researchers have five scientific objectives:

1. Investigate the effect of altitude and temperature on the density of birds and bats of LBER.
2. Evaluate the relationship between the structure and composition of vegetation and bird and bat diversity at two different altitudes and between seasons (winter vs. summer).
3. Explore the effects of logging and nest destruction on the population density of royal palms and cavity-nesting birds.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of artificial nest boxes as a tool to increase breeding density of cavity-nesting birds.
5. Continue to implement a community outreach program with the rural community of Banao in LBER, where targeted species survive. 

Project research hypotheses will guide the research and monitoring of critical species and conservation threats, as well as assist in the early detection of potential new threats. By directly involving community members in our research, our project will help strengthen the participation of local communities in the management of LBER and contribute to the reduction of species extraction from these reserves.

Led by the scientists and a team of local experts, citizen scientists will:

• Hike along prescribed transects through the forest to document bird species through sightings and audio recordings
• Set mist nets, take measurements, and place acoustic recorders in support of bat monitoring efforts
• Record temperature and relative humidity at monitoring stations
• Hike to designated plot locations to survey flower and tree abundance and composition
• While hiking transects, record signs of human disturbance (e.g., logging, parrot nest destruction)
• Participate in ongoing conservation efforts including the construction and placement of artificial nests for Cuban parrots
• Input data into datasets

Volunteers may also have the opportunity to:

• Learn to use statistical analysis to test project scientific research hypotheses
• Present on survey results at the end of expedition
• Plant nurseries located in protected areas to aid reforestation efforts, including the planting of mangroves and critical forest species

Fieldwork will take place at Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER). After two initial days of training, teams will work together as a group each day to conduct bird surveys in the early mornings, measure trees, and survey bats in the early evenings. Everyone will work on all surveys, but we will rotate schedules so each person focuses on one or two taxa per day (e.g., Group 1 will carry out bird and plant surveys on Day 2, then they will carry out plant and bat surveys on Day 3). The team will hike through the mountain and forest every day to conduct research tasks. We will have short lectures before lunch or in the evenings and have daily debriefings to review surveys and compile data in the late afternoons before dinner. Teams will have short talks in the evenings (about 20 minutes each) about the reserve, the community, target species, and staff research history.

POLICIES

Smoking is not allowed inside the accommodations.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. In addition, there will be breaks between surveys and sometimes waiting times before going to the next survey.

ITINERARY

• Day 1: Arrival at the field station in Jarico, in the lowlands of the Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER). Introductions and orientation. Short afternoon hike. You will have time to rest, adjust, and get comfortable.
• Day 2: Training, brief lectures on methods and target species, and a review of field guides. In the first half of the day, you will practice surveying, bird recognition and using recorders. After lunch at the field station and a short rest, you will learn about bats and be trained on data entry.
• Days 3–5: Fieldwork based at the field station in Jarico, which involves hiking several nearby transects. In the late afternoons/evenings you will do bat monitoring work.
• Day 6: The team will pack their luggage and hike approximately four hours up the mountain, through the forest, to the second field site for a few days of research in the highlands. For those who prefer not to hike, we will have mules available to move up to the second field site.
• Days 7–9: Hike various transects at the second field site near la Sabina field station, in the highlands of Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve. 
• Day 10: Team wrap-up and review of achievements, completion of outstanding data entry and departure.

Teams will stay at two different field stations. For the first half of your time in the field, you will stay in Cabanas in Jarico Field Station. The cabanas are in the lowlands of the Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER), in the middle of a hotspot for parrot nesting—you may see them around the station. For the second half of your time in the field, you will stay at La Sabina, a more remote field station in a mountainous cloud forest area of the reserve at a high elevation (650 meters above sea level). You may bring your entire luggage to the second field station (carried up with mules) or pack a smaller bag to take for the second part of the expedition to La Sabina if you prefer (suitcases can be safely stored at Jarico Field Station). There is a beautiful view of the Caribbean Sea from the mountain top when the view is clear.

* Please note that not every expedition has couples’ or singles accommodations available. Please call or email Earthwatch to check for availability prior to reserving your space(s) on the team.

SLEEPING

At Jarico, rooms will be shared by two or three people. At La Sabina, rooms will be shared by three people. All rooms will be separated by gender. Couples’ rooms can be accommodated depending on team makeup and size. Single rooms are difficult to accommodate because the capacity at both accommodations is limited. Single rooms are not available on fully booked teams. There are no mosquito nets available, but volunteers can bring their own mosquito nets if they wish, and staff can help you hang them. The type with one center hook at the top is best.

* Earthwatch will honor each person’s assertion of gender identity respectfully and without judgment. For both teen and adult teams, where logistics dictate single-sex accommodations or other facilities, placements will be made in accordance with the gender identity the participant specified on their Earthwatch Participant Form and/or preferences indicated in discussions with Earthwatch.

BATHROOMS

• Jarico: There are showers, toilets and hot water available.
• La Sabina: There are showers and toilets available, but no hot water. 

Both locations have one shared bathroom per shared room. 

ELECTRICITY

At Jarico, electricity is stable and constant. At La Sabina electricity works with solar panels, so can be intermittent. All teams stay in both accommodations during each team, so it is possible that teams could experience some intermittent electricity during the second half of the expedition. Both sites have refrigeration. 

The majority of outlets in Cuba are 110-volt current with standard U.S.-style two-or three-pronged outlets. However, some outlets are rated 220 volts, particularly in hotels that cater to European clientele.

PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS

There is no Internet available at either site. There is cellular service at both sites, but in some field locations, it may be spotty. PIs and staff will have cell phones and regular phone access..

Please note: Personal communication with outsiders is not always possible while participating in an expedition. Earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only.

FACILITIES AND AMENITIES

The sites are remote, but we encourage volunteers to bring binoculars and enjoy the nature around you.

DISTANCE TO THE FIELD SITE

Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER) is 73 miles from the town of Santa Clara, which is the largest town in the area. While teams are doing fieldwork in Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER), all research sites are reached by hiking. The hike between the two accommodations in LBER, from Jarico to La Sabina, is about four hours up the mountain (7.5 miles). Mules will be available primarily for transporting field equipment and luggage but can also be used to ride should the hike prove difficult for some participants. The mules will also be used for emergencies. The team will hike back down the mountain at the end of the team one day before departure.

FOOD AND WATER

All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be typical Cuban fare prepared by a local cook and eaten at the accommodations. The availability of food products changes daily in Cuba and sometimes there are shortages and certain foods will not be available. In addition, there is limited use of spices in Cuban cuisine, so you are welcomed to bring your spicy sauce or preferred spices if you wish to add them to your meals.

TYPICAL MEALS

The following are examples of foods you may find in the field. Variety depends on availability. We appreciate your flexibility.

• Breakfast: Eggs, toast, cheese, plantains, fruit, fruit juices, coffee
• Lunch: Rice, beans, plantains, pork, chicken, vegetables, soup, fresh fruits
• Dinner: Chicken, pork, fish, vegetables, rice, beans, pasta
• Dessert: Flan, fruit
• Beverages: Fresh juice, water, sodas, coffee

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms.

We will be able to accommodate vegans and vegetarians, but not gluten-free diets. Food variety and availability in Cuba can be limited and can change unexpectedly day-to-day. We can accommodate lactose-free and nut allergy diets.

The information that follows is as accurate as possible, but please keep in mind that conditions may change.

Cuba is a hotspot for biodiversity, with 17% of its lands and 25% of its marine platforms protected. The average annual temperature is 79°F (26°C), and the average precipitation is 39 in (978 mm), with most rain occurring during May and June. The field site at La Sabina can experience cooler temperatures and more wind at higher elevation. Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve (LBER) is comprised of low, karstic hills in the municipalities of Sancti Spiritus, Fomento and Trinidad, and includes the uppermost part of the Banao and Higuanojo river basins. The landscape is one of canyons, valleys, and sinkholes. LBER supports 72% (77 species) of Cuba’s breeding resident birds.

GENERAL CONDITIONS

For weather and region-specific information, please visit Wunderground.com and search for your project location.

All participants must be able to:

• Hike on hilly and/or steep slopes in densely wooded forest on uneven, muddy and rocky terrain for three to six miles per day, many days in a row.
• Be comfortable hiking and conducting fieldwork at night.
• Be willing to walk in/through the shallow rivers in the valley as often as instructed to conduct general herpetological surveys.
• Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather and in the potential presence of wild animals and insects.
• Endure tropical (hot, humid and rainy) work conditions.
• Be comfortable around mules, and/or riding mules in the event you need assistance.
• Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion.
• Take an active role in your own safety by recognizing and avoiding hazards if and when they arise (including, but not limited to, those described in Earthwatch materials and safety briefings). Always comply with project staff instructions and recommended safety measures.
• Be able to effectively communicate to the staff if you are experiencing distress or need assistance.
• Be able to get along with a variety of people from different backgrounds and ages, often in close proximity, for the duration of your team.
• Be comfortable being surrounded by a language and/or culture that is different from your own.
• Be willing to wait and relax in between fieldwork sessions.

EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD

The project and protected area staff will have mobile phones for communication while conducting field work.

Earthwatch has a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week emergency hotline number. Someone is always on call to respond to messages that come into our live answering service.

IMMUNIZATIONS & TRAVEL VACCINATIONS

Please be sure your routine immunizations are up to date (for example: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) and you have the appropriate vaccinations for your travel destination.

If traveling from countries or regions where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination.

• Rabies: Though participants will never handle bats, bat monitoring work, including the capture of live specimens, will be a core part of the research on this expedition. Rabies is present in the region and can be transmitted by bats and stray dogs, amongst other mammals. Participants should speak with their doctor or a travel health clinic about pre-exposure vaccination against rabies. Pre-exposure vaccination does not eliminate the need for post-exposure medical attention and treatment, but it does provide additional protection against the disease in event of a delay in treatment. The pre-exposure vaccination can be costly (upwards of $1,000) and may not be covered under personal health insurance. Participants should plan ahead for this cost, should their medical provider recommend vaccination. The nearest hospital that can support post-exposure treatment for rabies is in Sancti Spíritus, though availability of needed vaccines can vary. It can take at least 4-5 hours to reach medical care while out in the field, likely longer at the La Sabina field site. 

Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor. Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization for guidance on immunizations.

Vaccination against COVID-19 is required for all participants. Staying up to date with your vaccinations, including receiving booster doses as applicable is strongly encouraged. 

TRANSPORTATION

We may encounter poor road conditions including landslides. Only qualified, experienced drivers will transport volunteers in project vehicles; we ensure project vehicles are well maintained. Seat belts must be worn at all times. Volunteers are not permitted to drive. Driving after dark will be avoided, except in cases of emergency.

HIKING

Almost all research activities on this project involve hiking. Some of the hikes are up to 6 miles long. The terrain is mountainous, uneven and can be muddy. It can be slippery, so good shoes are necessary. Both rubber boots and hiking boots are required for all participants. The hike from Jarico to La Sabina is about four hours up the mountain (8 hours round trip). If requested, participants could ride mules to La Sabina. All fieldwork will involve walking, up to 6 miles/day (10 km), possibly uphill in rainforest covering, sand, rough terrain, or high altitude; on and off trails; carrying equipment weighing up to 10 lbs. (5kg) on and off trails. River crossings are part of the hikes.

ANIMALS

There will be mules present on this project that will be used to transport luggage and field equipment. They may also be used to transport people should the field research prove too difficult, or someone sustains an injury. Helmets must be worn when riding a mule and will be provided for volunteers. Snakes are present in the field research locations. Volunteers should remain in designated work areas and listen to field staff instructions for avoiding snakes and bites. There are no venomous snakes in Cuba, but if you have a phobia please inform our project staff so we can make sure we manage the situation. 

• Bats & Rabies: Though participants will not handle bats, bat monitoring work, including the capture of live specimens, will be a core part of the research on this expedition. Rabies is present in the region and can be transmitted by bats and stray dogs, amongst other mammals. The pre-exposure vaccination does not eliminate the need for post-exposure medical attention and treatment, but it does provide additional protection against the disease in event of a delay in treatment. The nearest hospital that can support post-exposure treatment for rabies is in Sancti Spíritus, though availability of post-exposure vaccines can vary. It can take at least 4-5 hours to reach medical care while out in the field, likely longer at the La Sabina field site. Animal bites or scratches should be immediately and thoroughly washed with soap, clean water, and a topical povidone-iodine solution or ethanol. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region.

INSECTS AND DISEASE

Mosquitoes are present in Cuba and at the research locations and can carry diseases such as chikungunya, dengue and Zika virus. Volunteers will be reminded to wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and long pants, and to wear insect repellent. Volunteers with bee sting allergies should carry two Epi-Pens with them and be sure to describe their allergy/reaction on their medical forms.

CLIMATE/WEATHER

Sun exposure and heat exposure are possible on this expedition. Volunteers will be reminded to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water. There is also the possibility of rain and hurricanes. LBER experiences intense rainfall during the rainy season (May–October). Hurricane season is June to November, when landslides, mudslides, flooding may occur. Research sites are located inland away from the coastline. Field staff will monitor local weather and plan activities accordingly. If local authorities or field staff deem it necessary to evacuate the location, follow all instructions. Because of the high humidity, people who use a hearing aid device may find it doesn’t work properly. Consider purchasing a hearing aid dehumidifier. You must be able to stay outside in the rain for extended periods of time.

PERSONAL SECURITY

Petty crime, including pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft from vehicles or guest houses (‘casas particulares’) is prevalent in urban centers and major tourist areas. We advise volunteers to be vigilant with personal belongings while in Havana to avoid any potential thievery.

SWIMMING AND/OR WATER CROSSING

Research activities may require volunteers to cross rivers and streams. Teams will practice thorough water crossing safety procedures, such as using spotters, crossing at low points in the river, and using ropes or harnesses if necessary, and only cross in designated areas. Recreational activities may include swimming in natural pools, and possibly the Caribbean Sea.

DISTANCE FROM MEDICAL CARE

Depending on where the team is when medical care is required, it may take up to 4–5 hours to reach care—even longer if you are on a transect near la Sabina. The closest clinics are in Sancti Spiritus (30 minutes by car), Trinidad (50 minutes by car) and Santa Clara (60 minutes by car) but departing the field may require a long hike or mule ride to access the road.

COVID-19 DISEASE RISKS

COVID-19 is an infectious coronavirus disease, which has caused a world-wide pandemic since its discovery in late 2019. Although most people who have COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness, COVID-19 can also cause severe illness and even death. Some groups, including older adults and people who have certain underlying medical conditions, are at increased risk of severe illness. The COVID-19 virus spreads from person to person via close contact, primarily through exposure to the respiratory droplets of an infected person.

Projects and participants approved to field during the COVID-19 pandemic commit to a number of enhanced safety measures described in the COVID Disclosure Form, including physical distancing, wearing face masks when required by local guidelines or requested by team leadership, regular hand washing, and daily health checks.

RENDEZVOUS LOCATION

Cafe de la Esquina, Havana Cuba  

* Additional information will be provided by Earthwatch to meet your team. Please do not book travel arrangements such as flights until you have received additional information from Earthwatch.

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Earthwatch strongly recommends that travelers investigate their destination prior to departure. Familiarity with the destination’s entry/exit requirements, visas, local laws, and customs can go a long way to ensuring smooth travel. The U.S. Department of State's Traveler’s Checklist and Destination Guides are helpful resources. For LGBTI travelers, the U.S. Department of State's LGBTI Travelers page contains many useful tips and links.

COUNTRY AND PROJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You are responsible for reviewing and abiding by the local COVID guidelines and regulations for your destination. This may include proof of testing upon arrival or departure, up to date vaccinations against COVID-19, including boosters, mandatory quarantine, or other requirements. 

For information regarding Cuba, please visit: https://cu.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ 

Earthwatch Institute and the Wildlife Conservation Society’s environmental project in Cuba is designed to directly benefit the Cuban people (the “Environmental Project”). Each volunteer will have a full-time schedule of environmental project activities that does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. The travel of each volunteer is authorized by the Cuban Assets Control Regulations under OFAC General License 31 CFR Part 515.575 pertaining to the Environmental Project. If traveling from or via the United States, when booking your flight, you must choose the “Humanitarian projects” as authorized reason for travel.

Entry visa requirements differ by country of origin, layover, and destination, and do change unexpectedly. For this reason, please confirm your visa requirements at the time of booking and, again, 90 days prior to travel. If required, please apply early for your visa (we recommend starting 6 months prior to the start of your expedition). Refunds will not be made for volunteers canceling due to not obtaining their visa in time to meet the team at the rendezvous. You can find up to date visa requirements at the following website: www.travisa.com.

CUBAN ENTRY CARD

A Cuban Entry Card is required to enter Cuba. As of June 2023, the Cuban Entry Card is the only ‘visa’ requirement of U.S. passport holders entering Cuba to participate in this environmental project. Typically, entry cards can be purchased at the airport when you check in for your flight if traveling from the United States but be sure to double check with your airline. The cost of the entry card ranges from 50 USD to 100 USD, depending on the airline you are traveling with. Some airlines allow you to purchase the entry card in advance online. You will be able to purchase your ticket online under the Humanitarian Projects category of authorized travel to Cuba. Travel restrictions to Cuba from the United States have been changing throughout the past few years. This information is accurate from the time of printing this expedition briefing. Please double-check Cuba travel requirements with your local embassy before traveling, as requirements are subject to change.

To enter Cuba, passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a return ticket is required.

ARTICLES

• Lonely Planet Guide to Havana
• http://www.birdscaribbean.org/2016/04/on-the-caribbean-birding-trail-in-cuba/
• Cuba Explorer: Birds of Cuba
• Cuba: A Country Frozen in Time (N.Y. Times)
• http://fm2.fieldmuseum.org/rbi/results_cub09.asp
• http://datazone.birdlife.org/userfiles/file/IBAs/CaribCntryPDFs/cuba.pdf
• http://fieldguides.fieldmuseum.org/guides/guide/155

BOOKS

• “Cuba Travel Guide” by the Lonely Planet
• “A Field Guide to the Birds of Cuba” by Orlando H. Garrido, Arturo Kirkconnell
• “Endemic Birds of Cuba: A Comprehensive Field Guide. Including West Indian endemics residing in Cuba” by Nils Navarro

LITERATURE CITED

• Boom B (2011) The Case for Enhanced Environmental Cooperation Between the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America. 2011. A Tinker Foundation White Paper. Updated as: Biodiversity without Borders: Advancing U.S.-Cuba Cooperation through Environmental Research, Science and Diplomacy. http://www.sciencediplomacy.org/article/2012/biodiversity-without-borders.
• Cañizares-Morera M, Berovides V, González BVP, Suz CLR (2008) Situación actual de las poblaciones del periquito cubano o catey Aratinga euops (Aves: Psittacidae) en el centro de Cuba. La Ceiba, Honduras 22–23 de noviembre 2005: 49.
• Davalos LM (2004) Phylogeny and biogeography of Caribbean mammals. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 81: 373–-394.
• Díaz LM, Cádiz A, Chong A, Silva A (2007) First report of chytridiomycosis in a dying toad (Anura: Bufonidae) from Cuba: a new conservation challenge for the island. EcoHealth 4: 172–175.
• Fritsch PW, McDowell TD (2003) Biogeography and phylogeny of Caribbean plants—introduction. Systematic botany 28: 376–377.
• Garrido OH, Kirkconnell A, Compañy R (2011) Aves de Cuba: Comstock Publishing Associates; Cornell University Press.
• González VR, Schettino LR, Mancina CA, Iturriaga M (2014) Amphibians of Cuba: Checklist and Geographic Distributions: Division of Amphibians & Reptiles, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Inst.
• Iturralde-Vinent MA, MacPhee RD (1999) Paleogeography of the Caribbean region: implications for Cenozoic biogeography: American Museum of Natural History.
• Muñoz AH (2014) Loros de Cuba y su conservación, Lulu Press, Inc.
• Savage JM (1991) Biogeography of the West Indies. Past, Present and Future. Systematic Biology 40: 110–111.