Hutias are rodents classified under the subfamily Capromyinae within the Echimyidae family. They are known for their sturdy build, large heads, and short limbs, which are equipped with sharp claws that help in their movement. Their long, sensitive whiskers increase their ability to detect changes in their environment.
These mammals are found in the Caribbean Islands, including Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Greater Antilles. They hop around from tree to tree like squirrels, feeding primarily on plant parts, like stem, roots, tuber, and bark. Unlike most rodents that live in underground burrows, hutias are expert climbers and spend most of their time nesting on trunk cavities.
Currently, there are 10 extant species of hutias that belong to their only living tribe, Capromyini.
On average, hutias range between 8.3 to 18.1 in (21 to 46 cm) in head-and-body length and weigh less than 4.4 lb (2 kg). However, one species, Desmarest’s hutia, is larger than the average and has a head-and-body length of 12 to 24 in (31 to 60 cm). It weighs between 6.2 to 18.7 lb (2.8 to 8.5 kg).
These animals have stout bodies, with a large head, small eyes and ears, and short limbs with distinct claws. Long whiskers on their nose help them sense their surroundings, and their body color ranges from black and grey to reddish brown or white.
They also have a tail, which may be very short and inconspicuous (in Jamaican hutia) or prominent and prehensile (in prehensile-tailed hutia). Depending on the species, the tail is either thinly furred or bushy.
Molecular studies have revealed that the subfamily Capromyinae is nested within Echimyidae, a family of Neotropical spiny rats. They are a sister group to the Owl’s spiny rat of the genus Carterodon.
Historically, around 20 species of hutias have been identified, but currently, there are only 10 extant species. These surviving species are grouped into four extant genera, all classified under the tribe Capromyini.
These rodents spread from South America to the Caribbean, reaching the Greater Antilles by the Early Oligocene Epoch by means of ocean currents. The oldest hutia species, which belongs to the genus Zazamys, dates back to the Early Miocene Epoch (23 to 13.8 million years ago).
Hutias are native to the Caribbean Islands, with most species primarily found in Cuba. They also inhabit the Greater Antilles, The Bahamas, and the Swan Islands off the coast of Honduras. Once widespread from sea level to high elevations, their populations are now scattered across cays, steep ravines, remote mountain valleys, and coastal areas.
Unlike many rodents that burrow, hutias are skilled climbers and often nest in trees, using trunk cavities and branches for shelter. They also take refuge in rock crevices, caves, and holes in limestone formations.
Most hutias are herbivorous and feed on plant parts, like tubers, leaves, stems, bark, and roots. However, they may also consume invertebrates and small reptiles.
They do not drink water and instead obtain hydration from the food they eat.
Depending on the species, hutias are both diurnal and nocturnal. For instance, the Bahamian hutia is active at night, whereas the prehensile-tailed hutia is active during the day.
They behave almost like squirrels, leaping from one tree to another and scurrying along their branches.
Most species have an average lifespan of around 8 to 11 years.
Hutias breed year-round, giving birth one to three times per year after a gestation period of 110 to 150 days. Each litter typically consists of one or two young, though litter sizes can range from 1 to 6 offspring. The mother nurses her young for about five months, and they reach sexual maturity at around 10 months.
Their predators include cats, dogs, mongooses, crocodiles, and birds of prey.
Of all extant species, only two, the Desmarest’s hutia and the prehensile-tailed hutia are commonly found today. The remaining are listed under the IUCN Red List as follows:
| Species | IUCN Category |
|---|---|
| Bahamian hutia, Cabrera’s hutia, San Felipe hutia, dwarf hutia | Critically Endangered (CR) |
| Jamaican hutia, large-eared hutia | Endangered (EN) |
| Black-tailed hutia | Vulnerable (VU) |
| Prehensile-tailed hutia | Near Threatened (NT) |
The primary threats to these rodents include habitat destruction and overhunting. They are considered a delicacy in Cuba, where they are cooked with wild nuts and honey.
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