The Tayra (Eira barbara) is an omnivorous animal from the family Mustelidae (weasels). It is the only species in the genus Eira. Tayras have a similar appearance to weasels and martens, growing to a size of about 60 cm, not including a 45 cm long tail. Most tayras have either dark brown or black fur with a lighter patch on its chest. The fur on its head changes to brown or gray as it ages. Tayras grow to weigh around 5 kilograms (11 pounds). The female gives birth to 2 to 4 young.

Tayras live in the tropical forests of Central and South America where they eat mainly fruit, but also small mammals and birds. They live in hollow trees, burrows in the ground, or nests of tall grass. They travel both alone and in groups during both the day and the night. Tayras are expert climbers, and can leap from treetop to treetop when pursued. They can also run fast and swim well.

Tayras are playful and easily tamed. Indigenous people have kept them as household pets to control vermin. Wild tayra populations are slowly shrinking, especially in Mexico, due to habitat destruction for agricultural purposes.

References

• Nowak, Ronald M. (2005). Walker's Carnivores of the World. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins Press. ISBN 0801880327

Mustelids

Tayra | Eira barbara | Tayra | Irara