5" x 7". Nickel Plated 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.