TAYRA
Eira barbara
DESCRIPTION
Tayra (Eira barbara) is commonly known as the Barbary marten and grison. This medium-sized mammal has a slender body, short legs, and a long bushy tail, with a coat that varies from dark brown to yellowish-brown. Tayras are known for their agility and intelligence, often seen climbing trees and foraging in various habitats, showcasing a mix of playful and curious behavior.
FUN FACTS
- Tayras are known for their remarkable climbing abilities, often seen navigating through trees with ease
- They have a unique social structure, being primarily solitary but forming temporary pairs during the breeding season, showcasing a fascinating aspect of their behavior
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
Average Weight3-7 kg
Average Length50-70 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Tayras inhabit a range of environments, including tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, and even savannas. They prefer areas with dense vegetation for cover and hunting.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Deciduous Forest, Savanna
- Native Range
- Tayras are native to Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to northern Argentina.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay
- Diet
- Tayras are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of foods including fruits, small mammals, birds, and insects. Their diet can vary significantly based on seasonal availability.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- fruits, small mammals, birds
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
NT
3-7 kg
Weight
50-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown to yellowish-brown fur with a lighter throat and chest
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
- Gestation Period
- 63-70 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population status of Tayras is not well-documented, but they are considered to be relatively common in suitable habitats.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats to Tayras include habitat loss due to deforestation and hunting. They are also affected by road traffic and human encroachment into their habitats.
- Predators
- Large birds of prey, jaguars, and pumas are known to prey on Tayras.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Tayras use their agility and climbing skills to escape predators, often retreating to trees or dense foliage.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon