Malta declaration (International Intersex Forum)Dixi-Solenodon cubanus

Blarina brevicauda

The topic provided seems to be a combination of two distinct subjects: the Malta Declaration from the International Intersex Forum and the Solenodon cubanus, commonly known as the Cuban solenodon. Given the nature of the request, I will create two separate sections within this response to address each topic individually.

Malta Declaration (International Intersex Forum)

The Malta Declaration refers to a landmark document produced during the Third International Intersex Forum held in Valletta, Malta, in December 2013. This declaration is a significant milestone in the intersex rights movement, emphasizing the human rights and bodily autonomy of intersex individuals. It outlines a series of demands and principles aimed at protecting and promoting the rights of people born with sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions for male or female bodies.

Background

Intersex people have historically faced numerous challenges, including non-consensual medical interventions, discrimination, and lack of recognition. The International Intersex Forum, which first convened in 2011, serves as a global platform for intersex activists and organizations to collaborate, share experiences, and advocate for change.

Key Points of the Declaration

The Malta Declaration calls for several important actions, including:

• An end to genital mutilation and sex assignment surgery on intersex infants and children without their consent.
• Legal recognition of intersex individuals in all aspects of life, including the ability to access identification documents that reflect their true sex and/or gender.
• Protection from discrimination and violence.
• Access to reparative treatments and justice for intersex individuals who have experienced human rights violations.

Impact

Since its adoption, the Malta Declaration has influenced policies and discussions on intersex rights around the world. It has been cited by human rights organizations, used in advocacy efforts, and referenced in academic research on intersex issues.

Solenodon cubanus (Cuban Solenodon)

The Solenodon cubanus, commonly known as the Cuban solenodon or Almiqui, is a rare mammal native to Cuba. It belongs to the family Solenodontidae, which includes only one other species, the Hispaniolan solenodon (Solenodon paradoxus). The Cuban solenodon is notable for its venomous saliva, a rare trait among mammals.

Description

The Cuban solenodon is a small, nocturnal mammal with a long, flexible snout and sharp claws. It has a shaggy coat, usually brown or dark gray. Its diet primarily consists of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.

Conservation Status

As of the last assessment, the Cuban solenodon is considered endangered. Its population is threatened by habitat loss, predation by introduced species such as cats and dogs, and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique species and its habitat.

Ecology and Behavior

Solenodon cubanus is primarily nocturnal and spends the day in burrows. It is a solitary animal, known for its unique method of injecting venom into its prey through grooves in its teeth, a characteristic shared with its Hispaniolan counterpart.