Animals in Anguilla

One of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean is the country of Anguilla. As one of the furthest east of the lesser Antilles Islands this island has an abundant amount of dolphins, bats and lizards. Many birds, during their migration, stop on this island during their travels north or south but few stay there because of the lack of fresh water.
One of the creatures that inhabit this island is the Caribbean Hermit Crab, (Coenobita Clypeatus), and has many other names that include the Soldier Crab and Purple Pincher; (getting the later name because of it's unusually large purple claw). This animal is a beach dweller, living in the roots of large trees and lives off of both animal and plant remains.
The Mangrove Cuckoo, (Coccyzus Minor), a species that is native to the Neotropics. This species nests in trees six to ten feet above water in trees in swampy areas and has a nest that is usually flat. The Mangrove female usually lays two to four eggs and both the male and female share in the feeding of their babies. They prefer to feed on caterpillars and grasshoppers but have been known to eat small lizards, snails, insects and fruit.
They have a long black and white tail, brown body and a black curved bill. This bird has a distinguished mask around their eyes with puffy underparts. This species is endangered to the encroachment of their habitat by humans, the over development of man may someday make this species endangered.