Tayra

/tˈeɪɹə/

[noun]

Tayra

[NOUN]

a medium-sized mammal found in Central and South America, known for its slender body, dark coat, and omnivorous diet

synonyms : Eira barbara

What is a "tayra"?

The tayra, also known as the "tolomuco" or "Eira barbara," is a mammal that belongs to the weasel family and is native to Central and South America. It has a slender body with a dark, glossy coat that is usually dark brown or black in color, and its long, bushy tail adds to its distinctive appearance. The tayra has sharp claws and teeth, which it uses for hunting and climbing trees. It is an omnivorous species, feeding on a variety of food including fruits, insects, small mammals, birds, and eggs. Tayras are known for their agility and speed, making them excellent climbers and skilled hunters. They are primarily found in forests and tropical regions, and are known for their curious and bold behavior. Tayras are considered important for ecosystem balance as they help control populations of small mammals and insects in their habitat.

Examples

1. Now, tayras will eat pretty much anything, and these fruits are just one part of their diet.

2. Tayras are known to pick plantains when they’re green, hide them away, and come back a few days later to eat them when they’re ripe.

3. The tayra, a weasel relative found in Central and South America, also uses time to its advantage.

4. Even if the tayra is cognitively advanced, it’s hard to beat the tiny marine ragworm at the food storage game.

Nearby words