Main Characteristics

Tayra have a body length between 60 and 70 cms (24 - 28 inches), a tail length between 35 and 45 cms (14 - 18 inches) and they weigh between 3 and 6 kgs (6.6 - 13.2 lbs).

They have a long, slender body and short, powerful legs. They are dark brown in colour with a paler coloured head but this can vary across their geographic range.

Habitat

Tayra can be found in the tropical forests of central and South America. They are either solitary or live in small family groups of 3 - 4 individuals.

Diet

Tayra are omnivores and they feed on small mammals, small reptiles, invertebrates, fruit and other vegetation.

Breeding

After a gestation period of 63 - 70 days, Tayra give birth to a litter of 2 - 3 young. They are nursed for 2 - 3 months.

Predators

Humans and dogs are predators of Tayra.

Subspecies

Subspecies of the Tayra include:

Eira barbara barbara
Eira barbara biologiae
Eira barbara inserta
Eira barbara madeirensis
Eira barbara peruana
Eira barbara poliocephala
Eira barbara senex
Eira barbara senilis
Eira barbara sinuensis

Interesting Facts

Tayra are also known as:
Tolomuco (Spanish)
Perico Ligero

Similar Animals

Wolverine
Lesser Grison
Greater Grison