Past

Due to natural causes and human impact, Cuban Pine Forests have gone through many changes. The forests were unaltered, having little deforestation, and more of a closed canopy (D'Ambrosio). Past forests have had more plant diversity and higher numbers of endemic species (Carabia). It was rich with several animal species, including the now endangered bird species, Ivory-billed woodpecker and Cuban kite, as well as archaic fauna like almiqui (Solenodon cubanus) or hutia (Capromys spp.) (D'Ambrosio). More areas were covered in “thick dense woods,” having an abundance of pine trees through Cuba wherever there was poorer soil (Waibel).