The Family Capromyidae, commonly known as hutias, is a group of rodents native to the Caribbean islands, particularly in Cuba, Hispaniola, and the Bahamas. These medium-sized, herbivorous rodents have stout bodies, short limbs, and thick fur, and they primarily feed on fruits, leaves, and bark. Most hutias are nocturnal and terrestrial, although some species can climb trees. Many members of Capromyidae are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and human activity. Ecologically, they play important roles as seed dispersers and as part of island food webs.