8 x 10 1/2 . Nickeled brass with goatskin head. The Cuica is also known as a puita boi or onca. Cuica in various forms are found world-wide. However they are most closely associated with Brazilian Samba music. It is believed that the cuica was used in Africa as a call for the male lion since the sound mimics the roar of the female lioness. So if you have any lions that want to samba- this is the instrument for you. If you are short a lion you will still enjoy the great sounds that can be derived from the cuica.