Hispaniolan solenodon  (Solenodon paradoxus)

Description

This ancient and distinctive mammal, capable of secreting toxic saliva, faces very real and immediate threats to its survival (2). One of only two solenodons in existence, it resembles a large, stocky shrew, and has a distinctive, elongated snout that extends well beyond the jaw. A unique ball-and-socket joint attaches the snout to the skull allowing remarkable flexibility and mobility (2). The Hispaniolan solenodon has coarse grizzled grey-brown fur with a black forehead and yellowish flanks (2) (3). On the nape of the neck is a white spot. The stiff, muscular tail is grey except for the base and tip which are whitish. The well developed forelimbs bear long, stout, sharp claws (2), and it walks with a stiff, waddling gait with only its toes coming into contact with the ground (3).

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