Abstract:
Recent paleontological investigations in Cuba
have shown that the island was formerly inhabited
by large populations of rodents and edentates.
Based on discoveries of giant fossil raptorial birds
(Strigiformes and Accipitriformes) in Cuba and
other Antillean islands, the theory is put forth
here that these predators were the principal agents
in controlling the abundance of these native mammals. Details are given of the discovery in Cuba of
the gigantic owl Ornimegalonyx, two species of
giant barn owls ( Tyto ), a giant species of eagle
(Aquila borrasi), and a vulture ( Antillovultur)
similar in size to the Andean Condor ( Vultur
gryphus). The relationships and possible origins of
gigantism in these birds are discussed. Descriptions,
geographic distribution, tables of measurements,
and a list of the extinct faunas found in each of the
type-localities are offered for each species.
