Tayras (Eira barbara) are both terrestrial and arboreal. On the ground, they run and bounce with the back arched
At the Cincinnati Zoo
and the tail along the ground. In the trees, they climb and move swiftly, using the tail for balance. Tayras take shelter in tree hollows, underground burrows, or in tall grasses.
Facts
- Pronunciation: TY-rah
- Length: 2.9 to 3.8 ft
- Weight: 9 to 13 lb
- Lifespan: 18 yrs in captivity
- Range: Central America and northern South America
- Habitat: Tropical forest
- Diet: Birds, small mammals, and fruits