The Cuban Hook-billed Kite is a critically endangered raptor endemic to Cuba, closely related to the widespread Hook-billed Kite but often considered a distinct species. It shares the remarkable adaptation of a large, hooked bill for consuming arboreal snails.
Where to spot
Restricted to remnant humid forests and woodlands in specific mountainous regions of Cuba, making its range very limited.
How to spot
Similar in appearance to the widespread Hook-billed Kite, but confined to Cuba. Identifying features include its large, hooked bill. Observing its foraging behavior, meticulously extracting snails, is key.
When to spot
Year-round, but very difficult to find due to its extreme rarity and secretive nature within dense forest. Any sighting is significant.
Where to spot
Restricted to remnant humid forests and woodlands in specific mountainous regions of Cuba, making its range very limited.
How to spot
Similar in appearance to the widespread Hook-billed Kite, but confined to Cuba. Identifying features include its large, hooked bill. Observing its foraging behavior, meticulously extracting snails, is key.
When to spot
Year-round, but very difficult to find due to its extreme rarity and secretive nature within dense forest. Any sighting is significant.
This species is one of the most threatened raptors in the Caribbean, primarily due to ongoing habitat loss and degradation of its specific forest habitat.
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