What are Chinese Wood Carvings?

I have 2 Bird Wood Carvings from Nassau-I'd like to find out what type of wood was used for these sculptures-?

• One bird has the following carved on the bottom-side as follows: "Mel Wallace, Nassau, 1985". It is 29" Tall, a very detailed carving & quite beautiful! It weighs about 9lbs. There is a vertical stress line on the front-side of this sculpture-It actually adds to the carvings beauty... The 2ND bird has the following inked on the bottom-side: "Nassau, Rufus, 1983" It is 30" Tall & is a bit thicker in dimension- Also, very detailed & quite magnificent looking. It weighs in at about 18lbs. I'm interested in selling them, but know nothing about their back-ground? Any idea's or suggestions? I especially would like to know what type of wood is indigeous to the Bahama's to create such beautiful renderings. All input & feedback appreciated! Thanks!

• Answer:

  The wood indigenous to the Bahamas that is often used for carvings is called gumbo-limbo, and native pine is also used sometimes. This is an example of carved gumbo-limbo: http://www.roatanisland.net/artists.htm