№ 74 of 100
Cuban Crocodile
Crocodylus rhombifer
The 'pearly crocodile' — boldly patterned, famously athletic, able to leap from water — survives in two Cuban swamps.
- Range
- Cuba
- Region
- Caribbean
- Habitat
- Zapata Swamp and Lanier Swamp — the smallest range of any crocodilian
The story
Cuba's endemic crocodile is losing their identity as well as their habitat: widespread interbreeding with American crocodiles dilutes the pure population. The Zapata captive-breeding farm maintains genetically screened bloodlines while rangers combat the bushmeat trade.
What's killing them
- Hybridisation with American crocodiles
- Illegal hunting for meat
- Sea-level rise into freshwater swamp
- Tiny range
Who's fighting for them
WCSWildlife Conservation Society
IUCN Red ListInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — Species Survival Commission
Turtle Survival AllianceTurtle Survival Alliance
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Quick answers
How many Cuban Crocodiles are left in the world?
Approximately ~2,400. The Cuban Crocodile (Crocodylus rhombifer) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and their population trend is declining. Figures are estimates compiled from the IUCN Red List and conservation organisations.
Where does the Cuban Crocodile live?
The Cuban Crocodile is found in Cuba (Caribbean). Their habitat: Zapata Swamp and Lanier Swamp — the smallest range of any crocodilian.
Why is the Cuban Crocodile endangered?
The main threats to the Cuban Crocodile are: Hybridisation with American crocodiles; Illegal hunting for meat; Sea-level rise into freshwater swamp; Tiny range.
Who is working to save the Cuban Crocodile?
Organisations working on Cuban Crocodile conservation include Wildlife Conservation Society; International Union for Conservation of Nature — Species Survival Commission; Turtle Survival Alliance.