c.

c. 7000 BC: Trinidad remained connected to the South American mainland until the Holocene epoch, allowing for a more continental variety of flora and fauna than other Caribbean islands. This ancient land bridge facilitated the movement of numerous animal species that are typically not found in the Antilles archipelago. Because of its unique geological position and high biological diversity, archaeologists have frequently portrayed the island as the “gateway” to the Caribbean. The island covers approximately 4,828 square kilometers and is the sixth-largest in the Caribbean chain. Most of its relief consists of low hills and poorly drained lowlands, with the exception of the rugged northern coast.