Summer Croc Fest Zoo Tampa

Support for the conservation of two unique lineages of Cuban crocodilians, Crocodylus rhombifer in the Zapata Swamp and Crocodylus acutus in Monte Cabaniguán Wildlife Refuge

This project will focus on in-country conservation efforts for the Cuban and American crocodile. Despite the efforts of field teams in the region of the Zapata Swamp (ZS) and the Wildlife Refuge Monte Cabaniguán (WRMC), the conservation status of these species has not changed and threats are intensifying. Illegal hunting of both species has increased and the population of Cuban crocodiles introduced in 1995 into the Lanier Swamp is now considered extinct.

CrocFest support will boost conservation strategies for both species of Crocodylus in Cuba by: 1) supporting reintroduction programs; 2) supporting spatial and reproductive ecology research and monitoring; and, 3) strengthening protection programs.

This project aims to carry out the vital life work of Roberto (Toby) Ramos Targarona and Manuel (Manolito) Alonso Tabet through a Cuban team of researchers who worked alongside and learned from their experience.

Host or Publisher Curt Harbsmeier Colette Adams Flavio Morrissiey