The Zapata swamp in Cuba is home to the Zapata Wren who sings his melodious song in this 1600 square mile wetland. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000 this astonishing place has swamp prairies, tidal pools, and mangroves. Going into the swamp on a small boat, poled silently thru the waterways, is like returning to a primeval world. With over 1000 plants species and 23 of the endemic birds of Cuba found here it is a rich treasure. That rare thing, silence, can also be found here deep in the heart of the wetlands Sanctuary … shelter for the soul.
Zapata Swamp
Zapata Wren
These two paintings reflect my memory of the few hours we spent in the swamp.
Mary P Williams 