What are solenodons?

Solenodons are curious rat-sized creatures with long snouts. They were once found in North America but the only survivors of this ancient group are found on two islands of the West Indies, one species on Cuba and another on Haiti. Solenodons are members of a primitive group of mammals called insectivores. These were the first placental mammals and in general the representatives we know today are small creatures (shrew-like, mole-like or hedgehog-like) which feed on a variety of invertebrates. Solenodons are shy creatures, sleeping during the day and appearing at night to feed. They run clumsily on their toes in a zig-zag course.