Solenodon

Solenodons (; from Ancient Greek (sōlḗn), meaning "channel, pipe", and (odoús), meaning "tooth") are venomous, nocturnal, burrowing, insectivorousmammals belonging to the familySolenodontidae. The two living solenodon species are the Cuban solenodon (Atopogale cubana) and the Hispaniolan solenodon (Solenodon paradoxus). Threats to both species include habitat destruction and predation by non-native cats, dogs, and mongooses, introduced by humans to the solenodons' home islands to control snakes and rodents.

The Hispaniolan solenodon covers a wide range of habitats on the island of Hispaniola from lowland dry forest to highland pine forest. Two other described species became extinct during the Quaternary period. OligoceneNorth American genera, such as , have been suggested as relatives of Solenodon, but the origins of the animal remain obscure.