Fefita La Grande, born Manuela Josefa Cabrera on September 18, 1944, is a legendary Dominican accordionist and singer. Known as the "Queen of Merengue Tipico," she has been a prominent figure in the traditional Dominican music scene for decades.
Fefita started playing the accordion at a young age and quickly gained recognition for her energetic performances and distinctive style. Throughout her career, she has released numerous albums and singles, earning widespread acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Her contributions to the genre have made her an iconic figure in Dominican music, and she continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Fefita La Grande's enduring popularity and vibrant presence on stage have solidified her status as a cultural icon in the Dominican Republic.
Salomé Ureña (1850-1897) was a renowned Dominican poet, educator, and advocate for women's education. Born in Santo Domingo, she is considered one of the most important literary figures in the Dominican Republic. Ureña began writing poetry at a young age, often focusing on themes of patriotism, national identity, and social justice.
In 1881, she founded the first higher education institution for women in the country, the Instituto de Señoritas, which played a crucial role in promoting women's rights and education in the Dominican Republic. Her dedication to teaching and literature left a lasting impact on Dominican society.
Salomé Ureña's work and legacy continue to be celebrated for her contributions to literature and her pioneering efforts in the field of women's education.
Frank Rainieri, born on September 27, 1944, is a prominent Dominican entrepreneur and visionary in the tourism industry. He is best known as the co-founder and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, a leading hospitality and real estate group in the Dominican Republic.
In the 1970s, Rainieri, along with his partners, transformed a remote area of the Dominican Republic into what is now Punta Cana, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Under his leadership, Grupo Puntacana developed the region's first resort and international airport, significantly boosting the country's tourism sector and economy.
Rainieri's commitment to sustainable development and community involvement has been recognized internationally. His innovative approach has not only revolutionized the Dominican tourism industry but also set new standards for luxury and eco-friendly travel. Frank Rainieri's legacy is marked by his enduring impact on tourism, sustainable development, and the local community in the Dominican Republic.
Juan Manuel Taveras Rodríguez was a pioneering Dominican physician and radiologist, known for his significant contributions to the field of neuroradiology. Born on August 27, 1919, in Moca, Dominican Republic, Taveras is often referred to as the "Father of Modern Neuroradiology."
Taveras earned his medical degree from the University of Santo Domingo before moving to the United States, where he completed his training in radiology. He became a key figure in the development of neuroradiology, specializing in imaging techniques for the brain and spinal cord. His groundbreaking work included advancements in angiography, which allowed for better visualization of blood vessels in the brain.
In 1954, Taveras founded the first dedicated neuroradiology department at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, which became a leading center for research and training in the field. He also co-authored the influential textbook "Neuroradiology," which has been a crucial resource for generations of radiologists.
Dr. Taveras's contributions to medical science have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, and his work has had a lasting impact on the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. He passed away on March 28, 2002, but his legacy endures through his contributions to neuroradiology and the many professionals he mentored and inspired.
Raudy Torres was a celebrated Dominican chef and cultural icon, widely known for his portrayal of the Carnival character "Roba la Gallina." Born on January 17, 1957, in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, Torres gained fame for his culinary skills and his vibrant participation in the country's Carnival festivities.
"Roba la Gallina" is a beloved character in Dominican Carnival, characterized by flamboyant costumes, exaggerated makeup, and a playful, larger-than-life persona. Torres's portrayal of "Roba la Gallina" was legendary, earning him a special place in the hearts of many Dominicans. He brought joy and laughter to the streets during Carnival, embodying the spirit of festivity and cultural heritage.
In addition to his Carnival fame, Torres was a prominent chef who promoted traditional Dominican cuisine. His appearances on television and at food festivals showcased his culinary talent and deep love for Dominican flavors.
Raudy Torres passed away on March 25, 2021, but his legacy as "Roba la Gallina" and his contributions to Dominican culture and gastronomy continue to be celebrated. He is fondly remembered for his charismatic presence, culinary innovations, and dedication to preserving and promoting Dominican traditions.
Mamá Tingó was a prominent Dominican activist and defender of rural farmers' rights. Born Florinda Soriano Muñoz on November 8, 1921, in Villa Mella, Dominican Republic, she became a symbol of resistance and social justice in her country.
As a leader of the agrarian movement, Mamá Tingó fought tirelessly for the rights of small farmers to secure land ownership and fair treatment. She became known for her bravery and unwavering commitment to her community, standing up against powerful landowners and advocating for agrarian reform. Her activism was rooted in her own experiences as a farmer and her deep connection to the land.
Tragically, Mamá Tingó was assassinated on November 1, 1974, by henchmen hired by landowners opposed to her efforts. Despite her untimely death, her legacy lives on as an enduring symbol of the struggle for land rights and social justice in the Dominican Republic. She is remembered and celebrated for her courage and dedication to improving the lives of rural farmers.
Idelisa Bonelly de Calventi is a distinguished Dominican marine biologist, often referred to as the "Mother of Marine Conservation in the Caribbean." Born on September 10, 1931, in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, Bonelly has made significant contributions to marine science and conservation.
She earned her degree in marine biology from the University of Santo Domingo and later pursued advanced studies at Columbia University in New York. Throughout her career, Bonelly has focused on the preservation of marine ecosystems in the Caribbean, particularly coral reefs and marine biodiversity. She founded the Dominican Republic's first marine biology program and played a key role in the establishment of marine protected areas in the country.
Bonelly's work has been instrumental in raising awareness about marine conservation issues and advocating for sustainable practices. Her pioneering efforts have earned her numerous awards and recognition, solidifying her legacy as a leading figure in environmental science and conservation in the Caribbean.
María Montez was a prominent Dominican actress who rose to fame in Hollywood during the 1940s. Born as María África Gracia Vidal on June 6, 1912, in Barahona, Dominican Republic, she became known for her exotic beauty and captivating screen presence.
Montez moved to the United States in the late 1930s and signed a contract with Universal Pictures. She gained widespread recognition for her roles in Technicolor adventure films such as "Arabian Nights" (1942), "Cobra Woman" (1944), and "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" (1944). These films showcased her as a glamorous star and earned her the nickname "The Queen of Technicolor."
Her striking performances and charismatic personality made her a beloved figure in Hollywood's Golden Age. María Montez's legacy endures as a pioneering Dominican actress who broke barriers and achieved international fame. She passed away on September 7, 1951, but remains an iconic figure in the history of cinema.
Juan Luis Guerra is a celebrated Dominican singer, songwriter, and producer, known for his contributions to Latin music. Born on June 7, 1957, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Guerra is renowned for his unique blend of merengue, bachata, and other Caribbean rhythms with elements of pop, jazz, and Afro-Latin influences.
Guerra studied philosophy and literature at the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo before pursuing music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. He gained international fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with his band, 440, and albums like "Ojalá Que Llueva Café" and "Bachata Rosa." These works earned him widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards.
Juan Luis Guerra's music is distinguished by its poetic lyrics, socially conscious themes, and innovative sound. He has become a cultural icon in the Dominican Republic and a beloved figure in the Latin music world, influencing generations of musicians and captivating audiences worldwide with his heartfelt performances and enduring hits.
Was a renowned fashion designer who left an indelible mark on the world of haute couture. Born on July 22, 1932, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, de la Renta displayed an early interest in fashion and design. He moved to Spain at the age of 18 to study painting, but soon shifted his focus to fashion, securing an apprenticeship with the iconic Spanish designer Cristóbal Balenciaga.
De la Renta's career blossomed as he moved to Paris to work for Lanvin and later to New York, where he joined Elizabeth Arden. In 1965, he launched his own label, which became synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty. His designs were favored by socialites, celebrities, and First Ladies, including Jacqueline Kennedy and Hillary Clinton.
Throughout his illustrious career, Oscar de la Renta was celebrated for his luxurious evening gowns, impeccable craftsmanship, and ability to blend European sophistication with American ease. He received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century. De la Renta passed away on October 20, 2014, but his brand continues to thrive, embodying the elegance and refinement that defined his work.
Marileidy is a distinguished Dominican sprinter who has gained international acclaim for her achievements in track and field. Born on October 25, 1996, in Nizao, Peravia, Paulino specializes in the 400 meters event.
Paulino's rise to prominence began with her impressive performances at national and regional competitions. Her breakthrough on the global stage came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There, she won silver medals in both the women's 400 meters and the mixed 4x400 meters relay, becoming the first Dominican woman to win multiple Olympic medals in a single Games.
Marileidy Paulino is known for her incredible speed, endurance, and determination, which have earned her a place among the world's elite athletes. Her success has brought great pride to the Dominican Republic and inspired many aspiring athletes in her home country.
It is a noisy bird that inhabits almost all types of forests on our island, especially in tall and thick-trunked trees where they dig their burrows in the wood with their strong beaks.
They have a length of between 22 and 25 centimeters. They are distinguished by their striking plumage of black and yellow stripes and their fully red-crowned heads in males, while females have a black spot in the red area.
They feed on worms and insects that constitute pests, as well as fruits and occasionally corn, which led to a persecution that significantly decreased their population in the 1970s and 1980s.
Their beaks are very strong, and their tongues can extend up to 10 centimeters. Their tails allow them to maintain balance while pecking.
Most woodpecker species are unsociable, but this species is very social and gregarious, as they form large colonies of up to 20 pairs to protect a nest or a tree.
The crab or freshwater crab inhabits almost all streams and rivers on the island, both in lowlands and mountains. It lives in caves in shallow and clear waters.
Although it closely resembles crabs, they are not the same. They can be easily distinguished because, despite both having 10 legs, the last pair of legs in crabs is modified into paddle-shaped appendages for swimming.
Its shell is slightly convex and finely granulated and dotted along the edges.
It lays around 700 thousand to two million eggs, which develop into miniature crabs and can live for 3 to 8 years.
They feed on small decomposing creatures and other small invertebrates. They do not eat fish but are potential predators of seeds and other animals. Additionally, they play a vital role in processing terrestrial plant material in streams.
It is an endemic bird that used to inhabit the entire island. Currently, its population is limited to Los Haitises National Park, and due to the Reintroduction Project, also in Punta Cana and Aniana Vargas National Park.
Its plumage is grayish-brown on the back and wings, while its head and chest are gray. The tail is dark brown with fine white bars. The thighs are reddish-brown, and its strong legs are yellow. It can measure from 35 to 40 cm, with females being slightly larger than males.
The female and male form lifelong pairs. They build their nests in the treetops or on top of the Palmchat's nest.
The exact lifespan is uncertain, but the oldest known Red-tailed Hawk is about 15 years old.
It is critically endangered. There is a conservation program for this species, which has increased the number of individuals on the island. They are beneficial to humans as they feed on rodents and other animals that can become pests.
The solenodon has reddish-brown fur on most of its body, being paler on the underside. Its body is small and elongated, measuring approximately 30 centimeters.
It is a nocturnal species that lives in small caves and hollow tree trunks in wooded and mountainous areas.
Its diet consists of arthropods, which is why it was classified under the insectivore order. It also feeds on small vertebrates. Its venomous fangs help it hunt its prey.
Both sexes are similar. The female has an irregular estrous cycle that appears to be unrelated to seasons.
They tend to have a bad temper. However, they are rather slow and clumsy. If caught off guard outdoors (although it is unlikely as they are strictly nocturnal), they are easily cornered, and if overturned, they are unable to upright themselves. It is in serious danger of extinction.
The Palmchat is the Dominican National Bird, as its family is unique in the world and only exists on our island. It belongs to a monospecific family (Dulidae), meaning it is represented by a single species. In other words, it is so rare that it was necessary to create a family and a genus (Dulus) exclusively for it. There are no more than ten monospecific families in the world, and the Palmchat's family is the only one endemic to the Antilles.
They inhabit the entire country and are usually seen in medium to high elevations, as well as all coastal plains and the interior of the island.
It measures about 20 centimeters (8 inches) and is olive-greenish brown on the dorsal part with some green on the wings, and light brown underneath, strongly streaked with brown. Its head is dark, its legs are dark blackish, and its bill is pale yellow, while its eyes are reddish, almost orange. It is impossible to distinguish the male from the female with the naked eye.
They build large nests using dry twigs. The nests can reach up to two meters in diameter. Both the male and the female feed the chicks and clean the nest. Their reproduction occurs between the months of March and June.
It is a species of bird in the Trochilidae family. Its natural habitats are humid subtropical or tropical lowland forests, humid montane forests, and highly degraded forests. Although considered a common species, the Swainson's Hummingbird is threatened by habitat destruction.
Adults measure approximately 10 centimeters in length. The plumage of males is entirely green with a faint black patch on the chest, while females have green upperparts and grayish undersides with metallic green sides. Both have a small white spot behind the eye. Their bills are long, slender, and straight, allowing them to feed on flower nectar.
Their most common vocalization is a sharp "tic" sound, often produced in a prolonged series of about five "tics" per second.
The Swainson's Hummingbird breeds between the months of January and August. They build their nests with moss and plant material in the lower parts of trees or shrubs. They lay two white eggs.
It is one of the most important species on the island due to its delicate position on the brink of extinction.
They live in the driest areas with sandy or clayey soil substrates.
They primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers of a wide range of plant species, although the fruits of the Alpargata Cactus (Consolea moniliformis) are the main source of nutrients and water during drought periods.
They are one of the main seed dispersers for dry forest regeneration.
They lay 2 to 34 eggs, with an incubation period of approximately 85 days.
The main threats facing this species are habitat loss due to deforestation for charcoal production and agriculture, indiscriminate hunting by humans, and the introduction of predators such as cats, dogs, etc., in nesting areas.
Its name, "barrancolí" or "barranquero," comes from its nesting on the slopes of ravines or earth banks.
While its relative, the "barrancolí picofino," prefers high areas, the "barrancolí picogrueso" prefers very humid mountain forest habitats at lower altitudes, between 435 and 1,700 meters above sea level. To nest, it excavates tunnels in river slopes like a kingfisher.
It measures 11 to 12 cm in length and weighs an average of 9.8 g. It is a small bird with a straight, relatively short and wide beak. The plumage of its upper parts is light green, with a red throat and the rest of its underparts are whitish with grayish, yellow, and pink hues, and reddish tones on the flanks.
The upper parts are grayish-white with a yellow and pink wash, creating a dirty appearance. The lower part of the lower jaw is reddish.
Despite its small size, it has a voracious appetite. It can eat nearly half of its body weight in insects in a single day.
They reproduce between the months of March and June. They build nests in ravines, excavating tunnels up to 60 centimeters long with their beaks and legs.
They lay 3 to 4 white eggs. This species is threatened by habitat loss.
In addition to being very beautiful, the yellow- Spindalis Cigua is unmistakable due to its bright and contrasting colors.
As its name suggests, a vibrant yellow dominates its body, contrasting with its black wings tinged with white and brown. Its head, also black, has two white stripes on each side, above and below the eye.
Females, although they have a yellow throat, are much paler, with a body that tends towards olive green or brown, and the head stripes are much less noticeable.
The spindalis yellow Cigua is only known from natural mountain forests (both humid and pine forests) starting at 700 meters in altitude.
It can be observed feeding throughout the day. It is believed that it must eat continuously due to the lack of a crop in its digestive tract, which prevents it from storing food like other birds. The spindalis yellow Cigua often announces its presence with a murmuring of intermittent notes, usually while in flight.
They inhabit a variety of forested environments at around 1,500 meters above sea level. They often forage in cultivated lands such as banana plantations and cornfields. They can be found at all elevations in forests, groves, and shrublands, wherever there are suitable fruits and seeds. Populations have been restricted to forest reserves and national parks. This species was once widespread on the island but experienced a significant decline during the 20th century.
It is an Amazon parrot with a white forehead, light-colored beak, white eye ring, blue patch on the ear, and a brown patch on the belly, which are the main characteristics that differentiate it from other Amazon parrots. Its body measures about 28 centimeters in length, and a typical adult weighs 250 g (8.75 oz).
They have bright green feathers with blue edges on most of them. Additionally, they have red feathers on the abdomen and a green tail with yellow tips on the upper side.
The upper parts are grayish-white with a yellow and pink wash, creating a dirty appearance. The lower part of the lower jaw is reddish.
They consume seeds or fruits. Parrots form lifelong pairs and lay 2-4 eggs per clutch.
It inhabits pine forests and feeds almost exclusively on pine seeds, with a dark plumage and a robust beak.
The crossbill has a beak with crossed tips, allowing it to skillfully extract seeds from pine cones. The male has a reddish-brown body with dark brown wings, while the female and juvenile are brown with fine stripes on the chest and a yellowish rump.
Interestingly, its closest relative, Loxia leucoptera, is found in the United States nearly 2,000 kilometers away.
It is a gregarious species of mountain pine forests. This species can be deceptively difficult to spot when not vocalizing, despite its bright colors and tendency to travel in flocks of up to twenty.
The crossbill can be challenging to see. Its call is a loud "djit, djit." Its song is a soft series of warbles and trills.
It is a semiaquatic turtle that inhabits rivers, lakes, and vegetation-rich wetlands. It is found primarily in the southern part of the island, but also on other islands in the Caribbean.
It does not have red spots on the head; instead, it has dark stripes on the neck and tail.
The supratemporal stripe (the stripe immediately behind the eye extending to the neck) is light yellow.
The shell is brown, and the underside is a light yellow color.
Its skin is grayish-green and has prominent yellow spots on its limbs, head, and tail.
Its yellow eyes are crossed by a black band.
As adults, they measure between 25 to 39 cm in length, with females being larger than males.
They mate from April to July and lay 6 to 18 eggs, which hatch in two to three months.
This species is found on our island and several satellite islands. It lives in areas with tall grasses near bodies of water, inside caves, or tree hollows.
It can reach a length of 3.5 m. Its dorsal coloration can be dark brown, gray, or even red. It reproduces through ovoviviparity (the eggs develop inside the mother until the embryo is well-formed). It can give birth to up to 50 offspring per litter after a gestation period of 192-224 days.
When frightened, it expels a foul-smelling liquid to deter its predator.
It has been found in pine forests, dry forests, swamps, shrublands, farmland, and cocoa and coffee plantations. It undergoes an ontogenetic diet shift, with small individuals feeding on lizards and larger ones feeding on birds and rodents.
This species is listed as Least Concern due to its wide range of occurrence, stable population trend, ability to inhabit different habitats including disturbed environments, and presence in many protected areas. The population is stable.
This species inhabits dry forests with cacti and plants with reduced leaflets or spines, in low-cultivated areas, and in the savanna.
It hides among and beneath rocks and straw beds at the edge of the grasslands it inhabits.
They are small lizards, with adults measuring between 5 and 6 centimeters in length. Males are larger than females, and they have elongated bodies and well-developed legs.
Their coloration consists of dark lines or stripes and pale yellow markings, with bright blue or aquamarine legs and a long tail. Their belly is either white or pale blue.
They are active hunters during the hottest daytime hours, feeding on mosquitoes, flies, small spiders, and ants. They reproduce through eggs.
They primarily inhabit the southern or southwestern region of the island (in the Barahona Peninsula, Neyba Valley, Azua Plains, San Juan Valley, west of the Cibao Valley, Beata Island, Cabras Island, Catalina Island, Cabritos Island, near Lake Enriquillo, and close to Padre de las Casas).
