The Great Predatory Birds of the Pleistocene of Cuba

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.